Northern groups condemn hijack of #EndBadGovernance protest

The Coalition of Northern Groups, on Tuesday, condemned the hijacking of peaceful protests by miscreants, leading to widespread violence, maiming, killings, and arson in Kaduna State.

In a statement issued by its chapter coordinator, Sa’adu Bako, the CNG expressed sadness over the unfortunate turn of events, which had resulted in the loss of lives and property.

The group sympathized with the families of those affected and called on the Kaduna state government to address the root causes of the protests, including poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

The CNG described the situation as a “ticking time bomb” and urged the government to take immediate action to prevent further escalation.

They emphasized that the destruction of properties and physical harm to innocent citizens is not a solution to the problems facing the nation.

The group also highlighted the challenge of out-of-school children in Kaduna, who are susceptible to recruitment by politicians with questionable motives into violent demonstrations.

The CNG called on parents and communities to take responsibility for building a decent society by instilling high moral standards in their children.

They also advocated for societal reorientation to promote brotherhood, respect for authority, and the rule of law.

The group urged the government to prioritize genuine investment in education, particularly primary and secondary schools, and to establish skills acquisition centres to train youngsters in practical problem-solving skills.

The statement reads, “CNG is saddened by the unfortunate hijack of the peaceful protests that people embarked on to express their concerns and feelings, as is the case in any democratic culture by the agent of darkness.

“We sympathise with the people of Kaduna State who have lost loved ones to the senseless violence that trailed the protests. Our hearts go out to the families and communities affected by this unnecessary bloodshed, arson, and physical attacks.

“The CNG is disturbed that the protest that was intended to be a simple instrument of expression of peoples’ frustration and a cry for help has been sadly hijacked by groups and individuals with dangerous motives, particularly against Kaduna State and Northern Nigeria.

“The sight of young boys deeply engrossed in the idea of the protest and breaking into shops and offices is a stark reminder of the challenge of out-of-school children in Kaduna, who are susceptible to recruitment by politicians with questionable motives into violent demonstrations.

“This is a ticking time bomb that requires urgent attention. We therefore condemn in the strongest terms the violent attacks against security agents and innocent civilians alike in the guise of protest.”

The group called on the federal government and citizens to work together to address the underlying issues driving the protests and to prevent further violence and destruction.

It added, “This is not what protests are meant to achieve. People must remember that arson and destruction of properties can never replace constructive engagements but can only waste away their commonwealth through repairs and reconstruction.

“We are calling on the Kaduna State government to re-strategize and prioritise genuine investment in education, particularly primary and secondary schools, which provide the basis for further educational advancement.

“This must be consolidated with the establishment of skills acquisition centres that train youngsters on practical problem-solving skills that would contribute to addressing our societal challenges while earning a living and being responsible.”