Choose dialogue instead of protest-World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria tells youth

By Maryam Aminu

The Nigeria Country Representative, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan has urged Nigerian youths to embrace other approaches in engaging with the government instead of protest.

He made the statement in Abuja on Monday.

He disclosed that inasmuch as it is a civic protest, predictions as to how it would go and end is not certain.

He stressed on the need to suspend the protest and engage the government in dialogues.

H.E. Amb. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan, Nigeria Country Representative,  World Sustainable Development Goals Organization

In his words: “in recent years, the role of youth in political processes has received heightened attention, with many advocating for greater engagement as a means to achieving better policies and good governance. The vibrant energy and fresh perspectives that young people bring to the table are invaluable in challenging the status quo and prompting socio-political reforms.

“However, the methods through which youths engage with government often lean towards protest – a mode of communication characterized by public demonstrations and expressions of dissent.

“Whilst protests have historically played a pivotal role in democratic societies, I argue that there are more constructive approaches that Nigerian youths can adopt to influence government policies.”

Adenekan while advising Nigerians to choose dialogue, he said: “By engaging directly in political dialogues, leveraging digital platforms, participating in policy-making processes, undertaking public services, and using advocacy, youths can drive positive change more effectively than by protesting alone.

“The confrontational nature of protests may polarize discussions and lead to governmental resistance rather than cooperation. Conversely, structured engagement through dialogue presents opportunities for more nuanced understanding and direct impact on governance.

“Direct dialogues between youths and governmental officials are essential for expressing concerns and proposing solutions in a constructive manner.”

While advising the government, he said, inclusion of youths in the policy-making process can lead to more comprehensive and far-reaching policies.

Adenekan, also advocated for youth involvement in public services, such as serving on community boards or in local councils, enables young people to influence governance from within Local Government Association.

Relaunched N110 Billion NYIF Receives Over 80,000 Applications in First 72 Hours

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has reported a remarkable response to the newly relaunched and restructured Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), which has received over 80,000 applications within its first 72 hours.

This announcement was made by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, during a town hall meeting with North Central Youth Stakeholders in Abuja.

Dr. Ibrahim expressed that the overwhelming response highlights the strong enthusiasm among Nigerian youth to access funding that supports their entrepreneurial and innovative projects.

She assured that the Ministry is dedicated to a fair and transparent selection process to identify the most deserving and impactful initiatives.

“The NYIF will create focused financing and funding mechanisms for youth-enabled businesses and innovations to keep our youth gainfully engaged in productive ventures,” Dr. Ibrahim stated.

“To maximize impact, the program has been restructured to focus on existing high-potential businesses and create strategic clusters that will generate up to two million direct and indirect jobs in three years.”

The Minister emphasized the importance placed by the current administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts to achieve these goals.

She called on all stakeholders including government entities, the private sector, traditional and religious leaders, civil society, and the media to mobilize youth across all social strata to benefit from the NYIF.

“I am inviting you to chart the course of this initiative, as you grab the opportunity to scale up your businesses for national prosperity,” Dr. Ibrahim said.

“To ensure inclusivity, I am taking this message to every part of the country, especially the grassroots. Join hands with me to actualize this mission as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Nigerian youth.”

The NYIF is a strategic initiative by the Federal Government of Nigeria aimed at harnessing the potential of Nigerian youth for economic growth and innovation, focusing on the development and empowerment of young entrepreneurs nationwide.

The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (North Central), Honourable Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, commended the President for his steadfast commitment to enhancing the well-being of Nigerian youth.

He noted significant progress in socio-economic, human, and infrastructural development within a short timeframe and urged Nigerians to be patient with the government, expressing optimism that the country will soon overcome current challenges.

The Stakeholders at the meeting stressed the pivotal role of Nigerian youth in supporting the policies of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for successful implementation during this period of economic recovery.

They unanimously distanced themselves from the planned nationwide protest, deeming it unnecessary at this time.

Matawalle Urges Calm Ahead of Planned Protest

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has called for calm among Nigerians in light of a planned national protest scheduled for next week.

In a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations, on July 26, 2024, Matawalle emphasized the government’s openness to dialogue and urged protest organizers to engage in discussions with authorities.

Matawalle expressed concerns about the anonymity of the protest organizers. “The persons behind the protest, the sponsors and their facilitators, are not known. Who is the masquerade behind the so-called protesters? We need to know. This is strange and ominous that they are unknown,” he stated.

The minister reassured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to resolving issues through peaceful dialogue, citing the successful resolution of the minimum wage dispute with organized labor as evidence of this commitment.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government is committed to dialogue and finding amicable solutions to the challenges we face,” Matawalle said.

He also warned of potential dangers associated with the planned protest, cautioning that it could be hijacked by individuals with malicious intentions, leading to violence and disunity. “We must be vigilant and not allow those with malicious intentions to disrupt our peace and unity,” he added.

Matawalle drew parallels with the unrest in Kenya, urging Nigerians to avoid a similar scenario. “Those moving to unleash the Kenyan episode on Nigeria should look back and examine the consequences for Kenya. That experience should have no place in Nigeria because it will set us back instead of moving forward,” he warned.

Emphasizing the constitutional right to peaceful protest, Matawalle reminded citizens that violence in the guise of protest is a crime.

“Protests are constitutional rights; violence in the name of protest is a crime. There are clear provisions against crime in Nigeria as they are under international law,” he noted.

Dr. Matawalle called for a collective effort to maintain national peace and unity, urging Nigerians to reject actions that could lead to instability.

“Let us work together to build a stronger and more united Nigeria. Dialogue and peaceful engagement are the best ways to address our concerns,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s readiness to listen to and address the concerns of all Nigerians through constructive engagement and dialogue.

“The government is in place to serve and protect the interests of every Nigerian. Let us choose the path of peace and progress,” Dr. Matawalle implored.

Nigerian Military Intensifies Operations Against Terrorism and Oil Theft, Warns Against Violent Protests

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian military has reported significant progress in its ongoing multi-front operations aimed at dismantling terrorist groups and their networks across the country.

In a press statement by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, he outlined the achievements and future plans .

According to the statement, the military’s current focus is on eliminating the leadership, commanders, and foot soldiers of terrorist organizations.

This effort has led to the neutralization of 106 terrorists and the arrest of 164 others in the past week.

Additionally, troops rescued 103 kidnapped hostages and apprehended 32 individuals involved in oil theft.

In terms of equipment seizures, the military has recovered 125 assorted weapons, including 41 AK47 rifles, and 1,522 rounds of ammunition. Other confiscated items include 22 vehicles, 31 motorcycles, 10 mobile phones, and cash amounting to N2,956,000.

He disclosed that inorder to combat crude oil theft, a unified command structure has been established in the Niger Delta. The military has destroyed 20 dugout pits, 24 boats, and 34 storage tanks used for illegal activities.

Troops also recovered over 800,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 121,900 litres of illegally refined AGO.

Major General Buba emphasized the importance of community and stakeholder support in the oil sector to enhance surveillance and ensure that culprits are prosecuted.

The military also addressed the planned nationwide protest, highlighting potential risks of violence and anarchy.

Major General Buba urged Nigerians to be cautious, noting that some elements might exploit the protest to incite violence.

The military stressed that while peaceful protests are a constitutional right, any attempt to incite violence will not be tolerated.

“Given the situation, there are indicators that unscrupulous elements are bent on hijacking the planned protest for violent purposes,” said Major General Buba.

He warned that any escalation of violence could lead to a state of anarchy, which the military is prepared to prevent.

He reiterated that the Nigerian military remains committed to maintaining security and stability across the country.

He encouraged citizens to support these efforts and work towards peaceful resolutions to current challenges.

Minister Warns Youths Against Social Media Misinformation, Urges Caution to Prevent Unrest

By Maryam Aminu

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Engr. Olawande Ayodele, has strongly urged Nigerian youths to refrain from being misled by false information on social media, which he fears could incite national unrest.

Ayodele made this plea during a meeting in Abuja with the Renewed Hope Ambassadors of Nigeria, led by veteran Nollywood actor, Zack Orji.

The minister emphasized that many social media posts are politically motivated lies aimed at discrediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“We are pleading, we are begging, we are appealing to everybody. We are sure that this country is in safe hands. We should not allow political people to tell us things that are not correct,” Ayodele stated.

He cautioned against using social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat as tools to destabilize the nation.

Ayodele also addressed traders directly, warning them of the potential impacts of unrest on their livelihoods.

He acknowledged the right to protest but advocated for dialogue and research to address grievances. “This is a listening government,” he assured.

Highlighting the administration’s efforts, Ayodele mentioned the 130 percent increase in the minimum wage, the disbursement of ₦10 billion for the procurement of CNG buses to reduce transportation costs, and the approval of a ₦35 billion student loan scheme benefiting 70,000 applicants.

He also noted the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on certain food imports to ease the economic burden on Nigerians.

4th left , Hon. Minister of State for Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, 3rd left, Veteran Nollywood Actor, Zark Orji and others during the courtesy call of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors of Nigeria on the Hon. Minister of State for Youth Development.

Zack Orji, speaking on behalf of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, labeled the planned protest as “directionless” and warned of its potential to cause widespread instability, deter investment, and disrupt public services.

He drew parallels with recent events in Kenya to illustrate the adverse effects of such actions.

“This directionless protest could lead to widespread unrest and instability, deterring investments and stifling economic growth in various sectors, including disrupting production and events, impacting the livelihoods of many,” Orji stated.

Orji reiterated the group’s recognition of the challenges faced by Nigerians but emphasized that the hard decisions made by the government are necessary for the country’s growth.

He announced the launch of the “Jagaban Will Fix It Nigeria Project,” aimed at addressing concerns through town hall meetings and capacity-building initiatives. This project plans to reach 100 communities and empower 5,000 individuals across the FCT and the 36 states.

“We urgently plead with our fellow Nigerians and other stakeholders in the entertainment industry to desist from the planned protest. Our platforms and influence can be used to foster unity and advocate for meaningful solutions,” Orji added.

Abel Damina tirades against Pastor Enenche, others sheer arrogance, disrespectful – Odola

A former assistant pastor with Pastor Abel Damina of Power City International, Apostle Paul Odola has frowned at the way and manner the former attacks ministers of the gospel.

It has been obsreved that Damina had picked on respected clerics such as Pastor EA Adeboye of RCCG, Bishop Oyedepo, Dr Paul Enenche and other various men of God.

However, Odola, who was the Bauchi State cordinator of the Damina-led International Charismatic Ministers Association, ICMA, in 1995, described his constant tirades against his fellow preachers as sheer arrogance and to a large extent, disrespectful.

He urged Damina to stop trying to divide the body of Christ with his “exaggerated and digressional messages.”

He said, “I was the Bauchi coordinator of the International Charismatic Ministers Association, ICMA, led by Dr Damina in 1995. Ever since I have known him, he has influenced me greatly in ministry, I must confess.

“But now, I don’t subscribe to some of the doctrinal teachings he propagates. As a matter of fact, we have had cause to question some of the exaggerations.

“For me, like I’ve often said, he is majoring on the minor. That is not edifying. It is a complete digression from the Bible’s teachings. When you are remapping a place, ancient landmarks should not be removed because the entire map becomes confusing. We are to be taught very basic, powerful, spiritual Christian practices. But I see his teachings as digressions from what we knew him to be.

“The way that Dr Damina has chosen to preach his gospel is completely out of character of how the gospel of Jesus should be presented. His name callings and picking on certain messages of fathers of faith that have come to be respected is out of character.

“These are people who have had personal experiences and encounters with God. I don’t think it is in anybody’s ministerial calling to correct people who have produced evidence, touched lives, and transformed destinies. People respected around the world should not be insulted in their understanding of God and the revelations they share. That is not Christian-like.”

Asked if Damina has deviated, Odola said, “The deviation is very obvious. The Dr Abel Damina we knew then was powerful, fiery, eloquent and impactful. In those days, Uyo was like a spiritual marker. Every February, we all looked forward to going to Uyo because of what we learned from his teachings, preachings, and ministerial impact. That is not the case right now. He has completely deviated from the things we knew about him then. That is not the same Dr Abel Damina of the 90s.”

On what might have led to the his sudden change and strange teachings, Apostle Odola opined, “In his own words, he felt empty, felt hollow, then traveled and said he had an encounter, and came back with this strange ministerial pattern. I don’t know what went wrong, but this certainly is not the Dr. Abel Damina that I knew.

“To be very precise, Dr Abel’s comments about other men of God like Daddy GO, Dr Paul Enenche are sheer arrogance and to a large extent, disrespectful.

“If he had had the opportunity, like some of us who have gone to the Glory Dome in Abuja and seen what the Lord has enabled this man to accomplish, I think with all sincerity, Dr. Abel would review his statements regarding Dr Paul Enenche.

“But when you stay in your corner and are not aware of what people are doing for God, your view about them will become pygmy and myopic.

“As a pastor, I know that nobody is perfect, but from what I have observed, Dr Abel Damina has gone too far in his divisive way of preaching the gospel. His arrogant approach to declaring the word of God has not helped to fortify or unify the body of Christ. A lot of people online are confused about the gospel of Christ due to his current teachings. To that end, he has become more divisive than united. There’s quite a lot of division and confusion.”

New Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development Assumes Office

By Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has welcomed its new Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya.

During the official handover ceremony, the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, urged the ministry staff to support and cooperate with Mr. Olusanya to ensure the ministry’s continued success and fulfillment of its mandates.

Dr. Ahmed praised the dedication and intelligence of the ministry’s staff, attributing his achievements during his tenure to their hard work and commitment.

He encouraged them to extend the same support to his successor.

Having been reassigned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Ahmed reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to youth development.

He highlighted the president’s strategic appointment of two young ministers to spearhead the ministry’s initiatives, reflecting the administration’s focus on youth empowerment in alignment with the renewed hope agenda.

“It’s a known fact that youth constitute 75% of Nigeria’s population. Youth are the economic strength of this country, and it is today that usually determines tomorrow. For this purpose, we have to invest in them to make them economically viable,” Dr. Ahmed stated.

Acceptance speech by Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

In his address, Mr. Olusanya expressed his appreciation for the positive feedback he has received about the ministry’s staff and encouraged them to continue their excellent work.

He assured the staff that their welfare and training would be prioritized to ensure motivation and smooth operations within the ministry.

Mr. Olusanya emphasized his open-door policy for ideas and collaboration.

Describing Dr. Ahmed as his mentor, Mr. Olusanya acknowledged that Dr. Ahmed’s guidance significantly contributed to his appointment as Permanent Secretary, despite not foreseeing that he would succeed him in the ministry.

In a vote of thanks, the Director of the Legal Department, ZI Gregory Fulus expressed gratitude for Dr. Ahmed’s contributions during his tenure and pledged the staff’s cooperation with Mr. Olusanya, wishing him a successful tenure.

Corruption Allegations Against NNPC baseless-NCSCN


A Coalition, the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), on Friday, described the corruption allegations levelled against the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum…

A Coalition, the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), on Friday, described the corruption allegations levelled against the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as unfounded.

recalls that the allegations involved claims of missing $2.04bn and N164bn in oil revenues.

The accusations were based on the 2020 audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, which purportedly indicated that the funds were unaccounted for by the then Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

But the Executive Director of NCSCN, Comrade Blessing Akinlosotu, while addressing a press conference in Abuja, said the group had conducted thorough investigations, refuted the claims and exonerated NNPCL of any wrongdoing.

He said, “Upon receipt of disturbing complaints from some of the affiliate members of the Civil Society Council, the leadership embarked upon independent enquiries and fact-finding missions which included interactions with both the accusers and the accused, leading us to vital discoveries and authentic records of the various issues raised. We hereby itemize some of the major accusations and contentious matters with the outcomes of our enquiries.

“The Leadership of NCSCN had a very thorough interface with the management of the NNPCL, calling for relevant books of accounts, while critical questions were asked.

“The tedious and non-manipulated mission revealed that by 2020 NNPCL was not yet in existence at that time in question, NNPC was the established existence and NAPIMS was in charge of the business arm. NNPCL was incorporated in September 2021 and formally unveiled on July 19, 2022.

“The Management of NNPCL presented to us the original Audited Account of NNPC which was found free of any verifiable fraud. NAPIMS is now scrapped, and the transition from NNPC to NNPCL proper stock-taking and auditees were conducted and made public, hence, the alleged missing funding is unfounded and unsubstantial even in the said AGF Report.

“NCSCN will make records available to members in our planned National Civil Society Conversation on the Petroleum Industry and PIA by next month where this issue shall be laid to rest once and for all among the Civil Society Community. We can boldly assert that the missing fund does not exist in the books and records unless there are other documents available outside all the official Audit Records.”

Abel Damina didn’t ordain Dr Paul Enenche into ministry – Paul Odola opens up

Apostle Paul Odola, the General Overseer of Dominion Power Assembly International, has countered the recent claim by Pastor Abel Damina of Power City International that he (Damina) ordained the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche and gave him direction into ministry.

Recall that Damina had always claimed that he was the one who ordained Dr Enenche into ministry and gave him direction on how to start his now global ministry, a claim many people have faulted.

Damina had also claimed that he ordained both Dr Enenche and Apostle Odola same day into ministries.

Speaking for the first time on the controversy in an interview with newsmen, Apostle Odola faulted Damina’s claim, stressing that Pastor Enenche was already an established minister before his path crossed that of Damina very breifly in 1995.

He said, “I’ve been privileged to know Dr. Abel Damina and Dr. Paul Enenche since 1995 and that was the first time Dr. Paul Enenche came into the picture.

“At the time Dr. Paul came into the picture, he was already a man of God in his own right. I have a particular handbill where Dr Paul featured as a guest speaker in 1995.

“In that handbill, there was one pastor called Dr Friday Yanga. Dr Paul came into the picture already as a minister of the gospel, fireful and vibrant. He often attended conferences that Damina organized then.

“There was this Jos Prayer Conference that was going on then that Dr. Paul attended. When the ICMA movement became a church, Dr. Paul came in as an associate minister. Sometimes he went around preaching, so we didn’t get to see him on Sundays. If he was around, he just came in for the service.

“I had the opportunity to invite Dr Paul to minister for us in Bauchi State in 1995. He was then a man of God in his own right. He came to that meeting with Dr Becky, his wife, and their daughter, Deborah, his mother in-law. He was anointed, fireful, a man of God in his own right by all standards.

“We had the opportunity of coming around Dr. Joshua Talena and Dr. Damina, and it was very clear that Dr. Paul was different. He was different from us in so many ways. He was different in his lifestyle, his approach to ministry, and his morality. At one of the conferences we had in Uyo in 1996, Dr Paul also attended. It was obvious that Dr Paul had his own approach, his own lifestyle, and ministry. He only came around as an associate.

“We always knew he had a ministry that was going to be global because of his approach to life and ministry, which was quite different from ours.

“His very strict and high standard of living was different from ours because we were all young men then. The way he is today, I am not surprised.

“If Dr Abel Damina claims to have trained or ordained Dr Paul Enenche into ministry, it is false.

“When a man who had his own ministry and was already in ministry associates with you at one point in time, it does not mean you ordained him into ministry. It is just like saying John the Baptist ordained Jesus into ministry. Today, we can see that Dr Paul Enenche had it and was intentional about it while he was with us.

Asked how long Dr Paul’s association with Damina lasted before he founded his church, Odola said, “The interaction was quite brief because Dr Paul was already in ministry and only associated with us. He realized that the company was not befitting for him and he left.

“On our part, our youthful exuberance was very obvious, so Dr Paul, sensing and understanding that, had to completely dissociate himself from us. That interaction and association were brief. I think it was that lack of principle and youthful exuberance that he observed. When he came around, he didn’t stay too long and today, the difference is clear.”

Speaking on the claim that Damina was part of the inaugural service of Dunamis Church in Abuja, Odola said, “To the best of my memory, Dr Paul had already started the church in Abuja when Dr Damina and I came for one of his conferences. I was part of that conference. The church had already started before Dr Abel Damina was invited to come as a guest minister.

“As a matter of fact, we were all surprised at what the church had grown to be within a short period. Obviously, I don’t think it was the inaugural meeting that we came for because the church had already started and Dr Abel was invited as a guest speaker and we all came together.

“Anyone with us then would know that Dr Paul Enenche knew where he was headed and what he wanted to do. People like Rev Talena could tell that Dr Paul came in with the understanding of ministry and where he was headed.

“When it was time to start his own ministry, we all knew he was going to leave.

“Dr Paul had always shown clearly that he knew where he was going and what he wanted to do in ministry.

“I want to say this with all sincerity. I invited him (Dr Paul) to preach in our church in Bauchi in 1995 because I saw that he was quite different among us. He was the first person that ever came to preach when I answered the call.

“I did it because I saw what he had and who he was. Today, I am not surprised at what the Lord has used him to do. I had the privilege of taking a tour of the Glory Dome recently, and I want to say that people only see the Dome from the outside. They have no idea of the Glory Dome except if they come and visit and experience it like I did. Dr Paul is not just a gift to our nation; he’s a gift to our generation.

“What he has been able to do by the hand of God, no man can claim. No man can claim that he has inspired it. He is a generational gift and consistently remains an inspiration to our generation. I think everyone in their right senses should give this man the honor he deserves and learn from what God is using him to do.

“Dr Paul Enenche, I must say this with all sincerity is one of the greatest voices we have in the body of Christ. He is more or less like the current father of our faith because, whether we like it or not, the older generations are phasing out.

“He is one of the current fathers of faith that my generation of ministers is looking up to. Let’s talk about the lives that he has touched. In every country he has gone to, presidents and leaders of that nation attend his crusades. Such a man should be given the honor he deserves.

“So, Dr Damina’s comments regarding Dr. Paul Enenche are completely unfounded.”

CISLAC Urges Nigerian Government to Address Citizens’ Grievances with Clear Timeframe

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the Nigerian government to establish a definitive timeline for resolving citizens’ grievances, rather than suppressing protests.

This plea was made by the Executive Director of CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, who highlighted the urgency of addressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, corruption, and insecurity.

“Inflation, unemployment, corruption, and insecurity are critical challenges that need urgent attention. The integrity of our institutions is in question, and it is imperative to restore trust and confidence so that citizens can once again believe in their country,” Rafsanjani stated.

Rafsanjani emphasized the need to protect the rights of protesters, stating that peaceful protest is a fundamental right in Nigeria.

“Protesters must be protected. This is a democratic right, and the government should ensure their safety. The protests should not be framed along religious, ethnic, and political lines; rather, the government at all levels should listen to and address the genuine concerns of the people,” he added.

CISLAC has urged local and state governments to leverage their influence to resolve issues constructively, rather than exerting undue pressure on protesters, which could provoke further unrest. “Addressing the issues raised is crucial. The government must set a clear timeframe for resolving these problems instead of merely attempting to halt protests or arresting those who want to protest,” Rafsanjani emphasized.

The organization also warned against the military’s involvement in handling domestic issues, which should be the responsibility of the police and the Department of State Services (DSS).

“The military should not assume the role of the police in domestic matters. Professionalism and restraint are essential to avoid escalating tensions,” Rafsanjani cautioned.

Rafsanjani also called on protesters to remain responsible and vigilant against individuals seeking to exploit the protests for negative purposes.

“Protesters must remain peaceful and vigilant. The police should protect them and ensure the protest does not escalate due to the actions of those with malicious intentions,” he noted.

CISLAC further called for comprehensive measures to address the issues at hand, allowing citizens to freely express their opinions on government actions.

“In a democratic setting, every individual should have the right to express their views on government performance. President Bola Tinubu, himself a product of protest, should understand and respect this right,”

CISLAC stands firmly with the citizens in their right to peaceful protest and calls on the government to act with urgency and responsibility in addressing the concerns raised by Nigerians.

The organization also called on governments at both state and national levels to release those who have been arrested for expressing their desire to join peaceful protests for positive change.