National Protest: NPJ Commends Peaceful Protests in Various States
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Network of Peace Journalists (NPJ), alongside other peace-building groups such as Community Peace Observers (CPOs), has commended the peaceful protests recorded in various states across Nigeria. Their efforts are dedicated to promoting peace and unity throughout the country.
In a statement released on Sunday, team leader Ibrahima Yakubu praised the citizens of Plateau, Taraba, Delta, Edo, Benue, Nasarawa, and Ogun for their conduct during the nationwide #EndBadGovernmentProtest.
Mr. Yakubu urged state and federal legislators, governors, ministers, and former heads of state to join hands in urging the federal government to address the hardships faced by citizens.
The groups have been closely monitoring the situation since August 1, 2024, calling for calm and dialogue. Yakubu stressed the importance of preventing thugs and looters from hijacking the peaceful protests.
He particularly commended the youth of Plateau State for their display of peace, love, and unity, and for engaging in interfaith activities during the protests.
“As a coalition of 50 media networks, we have been monitoring and visiting locations where peaceful protests were observed in Kaduna,” Yakubu stated. “Our role as journalists is to report and provide updates on the ongoing 10-day peace protest.”
Yakubu also acknowledged the efforts of joint security forces in maintaining law and order and protecting law-abiding citizens during the protests. Despite the unfortunate loss of lives and property, he prayed for an end to the citizens’ hardships.
The peace builders network believes the government must take immediate action to alleviate these hardships. This includes reducing the price of petrol to its initial level, addressing insecurity and kidnapping issues, and creating an enabling environment for citizens to continue their daily business activities.
The group also called on religious leaders to engage in continuous prayers for peace and stability in the country. As the protests gradually wind down in Kaduna and other parts of the north, business activities are beginning to resume amidst heightened security measures to protect lives and property.
