Kwankwaso Calls on Nigerians to Use Ballot for Change Amid Protests

Former Kano State Governor and National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has called on Nigerians to prioritize democratic processes over protests to address the nation’s challenges.

In a statement issued on Friday, July 26, 2024, amidst growing discontent and calls for demonstrations, Sen. Kwankwaso emphasized the importance of the ballot in driving effective and lasting change.

“It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria. We find ourselves in avoidable hardship because our leaders missed some steps since 2007,” Kwankwaso stated. “However, there is always room for correction and setting the country on the right track for economic development, prosperity, and better welfare of citizens.”

Kwankwaso identified several crises arising from poor governance, including federal interference in Kano State’s chieftaincy matters, the impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political turmoil in Rivers State, and widespread insecurity.

“Interferences by the Federal Government into the affairs of the chieftaincy matters in Kano State, impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political crisis in Rivers State, sabotage to Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding the SAMOA agreement, the conflict between Sen. Ali Ndume and the APC Leadership, widespread insecurity, and other criminal acts are a few examples of avoidable and unnecessary crises,” he said.

He argued that these issues stem from a lack of accountability and transparency, which has led to widespread hardship among citizens, especially the youth.

Kwankwaso acknowledged the collective frustration and desire for a better Nigeria but cautioned against the potential consequences of protests. He urged Nigerians to utilize their votes as the most effective tool for change.

“In these trying times, our nation stands at a crossroads. Our collective frustration with bad governance has reached a boiling point, and the urge to protest is strong. As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I share your concerns and your desire for change. However, I urge you to consider the consequences of national protests and to channel your energy into a more effective and peaceful means of transformation through the power of your ballot,” Kwankwaso advised.

He warned that protests, though a fundamental democratic right, often escalate into violence, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos.

“The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us,” he added.

Kwankwaso concluded by urging Nigerians to work together to build a better nation through democratic means.

“I speak to you not just as an elder and a concerned citizen but as someone who deeply believes in the power and potential of our great nation. Let us put our country first and work together to build the Nigeria we all aspire to see,” he said.

Sen. Kwankwaso’s message comes at a crucial time when Nigerians are increasingly disillusioned with governance and seeking ways to hold their leaders accountable. His call to harness the power of the ballot underscores the importance of democratic processes and the role of citizens in shaping the nation’s future.