Protest: Northern groups urge Nigerians to be patient with Tinubu

A coalition of Northern youth groups, on Saturday, issued a call for patience and dialogue amidst ongoing nationwide protests.

The coalition, which includes the Northern Youth Movement for Good Governance and Democratic Values and the North Central Progressive Voice, convened for what they termed the “Northern Nigeria Solidarity World Press Conference for Peace in Nigeria.”

The groups urged Nigerians to forgo the protests and engage in constructive dialogue with the government. They emphasized that the current economic challenges faced by Nigeria are not solely the result of President Bola Tinubu’s policies but are the result of long-standing economic mismanagement that requires significant and sustained corrective measures.

The coalition expressed concern that continued protests would exacerbate hardships for ordinary citizens, highlighting the ongoing loss of lives, destruction of property, and vandalism occurring across the country. They appealed for a cessation of street demonstrations and a focus on dialogue to address grievances.

Acknowledging the efforts of several state governors, the coalition thanked Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Anambra Governor Charles Soludo, and others who managed to prevent protests in their states.

Earlier, the coalition had toured Northern Nigeria, meeting with state governors, traditional rulers, and other regional leaders. They sought justice and fair treatment for former Kogi State Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello, who they alleged was being unfairly persecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The group had sent open letters to President Tinubu urging him to address the handling of the Bello case by the EFCC.

The coalition has now called on President Tinubu to make a public address and engage directly with protesters to prevent further violence and property damage as the protests continue into their third day. They praised President Tinubu as a staunch advocate of the rule of law, due process, and peaceful coexistence, expressing confidence in his commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.