Pro-Tinubu group calls for dialogue against violent protest

The organisers of the August 1st “End Bad Government” protest have been advised to pursue dialogue with the Federal Government instead of staging potentially violent street demonstrations.

The call comes amidst concerns over the current insecurity in Nigeria and the risk of further destabilising the country.

A coalition of pro-democracy groups, including civil society organisations, the Nigerian Interfaith Forum, the Bloggers/Content Creators Forum, and Women Supporting Women for Good Governance, made this appeal on Wednesday in Abuja.

Dr Obiora James, President of the CSOs, urged Nigerians to explore alternative methods of engagement with the government.

He emphasised the need for constructive dialogue to protect the nation’s stability and progress.

“Our focus should be on fostering peace and development,” he said, warning that protests could be hijacked by criminals, resulting in violence and destruction.

Mallam Mahmood Kyari of the Bloggers/Content Creators Forum echoed this sentiment, stressing that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, there is a risk of it being exploited, leading to potential chaos and setbacks.

Mrs. Magret Thomas, leader of Women Supporting Women for Good Governance, also endorsed the idea of dialogue as a more constructive approach.

Bishop Benjamin Abba Odeh of the Interfaith Forum called on all faith communities to prioritise peaceful engagement with the government rather than confrontation.

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