By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
As some Nigerians prepare for protest over hunger, the Aare Mulusumi of Yoruba in Kano, Alhaji Surajudeen Adewuyi Muhammad has sued for peace and dialogue.
The Islamic leader urged the youths to pray for a better Nigeria instead of violent action.
In a statement he personally signed, the Aare insisted that protest is not the solution to Nigeria’s problems.
According to him: “Nigeria stands at a critical juncture as the countdown begins towards nationwide protests slated to commence on August 1, 2024.
“The swell of frustration among youths, echoing from every corner of the nation, is a testament to their profound dissatisfaction with the current state of governance under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“This discontent is further compounded by a relentless economic downturn that has inflicted severe hardships on ordinary Nigerians, driving up the cost of living to unprecedented levels.”
Dr. Muhammad added that: “While our grievances are undoubtedly valid and our demand for effective governance is both justifiable and urgent, we must contemplate whether prolonged protests alone will lead us to the enduring solutions we desperately seek.”
The Aare emphasized that, “protests, though an undeniable reflection of public discontent and a powerful call for change, carry inherent risks capable of heightening tensions to perilous extremes.”
Citing examples of violent revolutions, he said: “History bears witness to instances across Africa and beyond where well-intentioned protests, initially peaceful in nature, have tragically descended into chaos. Let us learn from Egypt’s Tahrir Square that recently snowballed to Sudan upheavals.
“These movements, though born of noble intent, have often left a trail of lives lost, properties destroyed, and societies fractured for years to come.”
Aare urged Nigerian youths to contemplate a different approach, “rather than solely relying on protests, we should embrace a strategy of constructive engagement.
” it is crucial that we explore alternative avenues through which we can channel our energies towards achieving substantive and sustainable change.
“One such avenue is dialogue—engaging directly with the government through established channels to articulate grievances, propose viable solutions, and advocate earnestly for meaningful reforms.”
The Aare also called on the nation’s leaders to pay more attention to the concerns of the people. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to do whatever he can to calm the frayed nerves in the polity resulting from the harsh economic challenges.
“We must ensure that the voices of the youth resonate, and their aspirations are translated into tangible realities through governance that is both sustainable and inclusive,” he said.