Former presidential hopefuls in Nigeria have been called upon to refrain from endorsing or instigating violence through the upcoming #End Bad Governance demonstrations. Dr. Tunde Anifowose-Kelani, the National Chairman of the Council of Former Presidential Candidates of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFPCFRN), issued this statement on Tuesday.
Additionally, Alhaji Gani Galadima, another former presidential candidate and the Executive Secretary of the council, voiced his concerns and urged for the cancellation of the planned protests, emphasizing the critical need for peace and progress within the nation.
In his remarks, Anifowose-Kelani emphasized that the former presidential candidates have previously committed to a peace accord and should prioritize peaceful resolutions to national issues, rather than participating in demonstrations. His comments were made in response to the protests scheduled to occur nationwide from August 1 to 10, 2024.
While prominent figures such as Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Mr. Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress have expressed their support for the protests, Anifowose-Kelani maintained that no former presidential candidate should take part. He stressed the importance of acting as responsible leaders who create solutions and alleviate the struggles faced by the populace.
He encouraged his fellow former candidates to engage with the public, educating them about the dangers of violence, asserting that Nigeria cannot afford to witness further protests at this time. “This is our elite platform. We must avoid protests but instead connect with our communities to discourage such actions,” he stated.
Anifowose-Kelani warned that protests and destruction would only hinder the nation’s progress, providing opportunities for those who seek to exploit the chaos.
He specifically urged Nigerians, particularly the youth, to avoid any actions that could lead to violence, insisting that such behavior serves no one’s interests.
He articulated, “Destruction of infrastructure will only drag the country backwards. We should express our grievances without resorting to violence.”
Moreover, he called on the Nigerian government to intensify efforts aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by citizens, advocating for effective governance, accessible education, adequate healthcare, and improved infrastructure.
He also highlighted the need for a reduction in the tax burden on Nigerians and suggested that the exchange rate should stabilize, with local procurement of crude oil and a decrease in food prices.
