Members of the Third Republic House of Representatives have urged Nigerians to desist from the planned protests.
According to them, thugs could infiltrate peaceful protests and incite violence or spread misinformation and distort the main purpose of the protests.
The Speaker of the 593-member assembly, Basil Okafor, disclosed this at a press conference at the National Assembly on Friday.
Protests in tense societies often lead to a breakdown in communication and dialogue, deepening divisions and giving rise to an “us versus them” mentality rather than understanding and empathy, he said.
He said people on opposing sides remain stuck in their positions and refuse to listen or engage in meaningful dialogue. The desire for change and progress, which is the essence of protest, is overshadowed by animosity and hostility.
He said “Today, we stand before you to address and add our voice, to say No to the impending critical issue in Nigeria today- The planned protest.
“While the right to protest is an integral part of any democracy, it is essential to acknowledge the negative consequences that can arise when protests are conducted in a tense atmosphere, also taking into cognizance the prevalence of the use of drugs by the youths. Typical and recent examples of what to expect were seen in Kenya and Uganda which we believe the planners wish to emulate and perpetrate in Nigeria.
“Protests, when carried out peacefully and responsibly, have the power to bring attention to important social, political, and economic issues. They allow voices to be heard, encourage dialogue, and promote change. However, in a society already burdened with tension, protests can exacerbate the existing problems, further dividing people and escalating tensions.
“Firstly, it is important to recognize that a tense society is often characterized by polarized opinions, conflicting ideologies, and deep-seated emotions. In such an environment, protests can easily become breeding grounds for violence and unrest.
“The frustration, anger, and resentment that lie beneath the surface can erupt into chaos, undermining the very purpose of the protest and causing harm to individuals and property
“Secondly, the ills of protest in a tense society lie in the potential for manipulation and exploitation by various stakeholders. In times of tension and strife, extremist groups or political factions may exploit protests to further their own agenda.
“Lastly, another consequence of protests in a tense society is the negative impact on the economy and daily life. Protests that disrupt public transportation, block major roads, or damage infrastructure can have severe repercussions on businesses and individuals trying to go about their daily lives. The uncertainty and instability caused by protests can deter investment, hamper economic growth, and create long-term damage to the communities affected.
“So, what is the solution? It is crucial for us to advocate for responsible and peaceful protests in tense societies. Protesters must be mindful of their actions, ensuring they do not incite violence or give room for undue exploitation. More importantly, all stakeholders need to engage in open,
constructive dialogue, fostering understanding and empathy, even when faced with opposing viewpoints.
“This is what the president has been doing.
“Just yesterday he met leaders across the shades of the country, the traditional rulers, religious leaders. Unfortunately, there are no clear leaders of the planned protest, a sign that nobody is ready to take responsibility in the event of the protest turning sour. Hence they can’t guarantee a peaceful protest.
“We must remember that protest is a tool, a means to an end. It should not override the ultimate goal of the improvement of society. By focusing on the issues that unite us, rather than those that divide us, we can work towards finding common ground and solutions that benefit everyone.
“In conclusion, while protests have the potential to make positive changes in society, we need to be cautious of their consequences in intense environments. By promoting responsible behavior, fostering dialogue, and seeking common ground.”
