The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged protesters to maintain peace and refrain from damaging property amid rising concerns that the protests are being hijacked by criminal elements and political actors with ulterior motives.
In a statement signed by Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC’s Executive Director, the organization expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation and the influence of non-state actors in several states, including Kano. CISLAC’s situation room has observed that security operatives are being swayed by political interference linked to local rivalries, resulting in inadequate protection of peaceful demonstrators.
“The peaceful demonstrations by Nigerians, initially intended to express legitimate grievances, have unfortunately been hijacked and turned into violent chaos,” stated Comrade Rafsanjani. “Criminal elements are exploiting the protests to create further unrest and undermine public safety.”
CISLAC stressed that the government must refrain from politicizing security measures, especially in Kano, and focus on protecting lives and properties. The violence and destruction currently witnessed are contrary to the intentions of the peaceful protesters.
“The government should stop politicizing security in Kano and protect the lives and properties of all. The balkanization of properties and killings witnessed are not in tandem with what innocent Nigerians are calling for,” the statement continued.
CISLAC also condemned provocative statements made by public officials, including the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which have exacerbated tensions and incited further unrest. “Reckless and provocative statements by public officials can incite Nigerians to take to the streets. Such statements undermine the legitimacy of the protesters’ concerns and should be avoided.”
Furthermore, the organization criticized the government’s alleged sponsorship of counter-protests aimed at undermining the legitimate demonstrations. “The government’s actions have endangered peaceful protesters, leading to attacks and hijacking by thugs and non-state actors,” Rafsanjani added.
CISLAC had previously called on the government to ensure the protection of peaceful protesters, a measure that, if properly implemented, could have prevented the current state of chaos. “We have observed troubling trends and urge genuine protesters to continue their demonstrations peacefully to prevent criminals from exploiting the situation.”
The statement concluded with a plea to respected leaders across the country to ensure an end to the violence and destruction. “We appeal to all Nigerians to avoid any violent, criminal, and political destruction. The protests, meant to address legitimate concerns, should not be equated with criminal activities and violence.”
CISLAC remains committed to advocating for the protection of citizens’ rights and ensuring that their voices are heard in a safe and peaceful manner.