National Protest: Kwankwaso Urges Nigerians to Resort to Ballot for Regime Change

 

As the nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, 2024, approaches, former Kano State Governor and national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has urged the organizers to reconsider their plans. Instead, he advocates for regime change through democratic means, emphasizing the power of the ballot over protests.

In a statement personally signed on Friday night, Kwankwaso stressed that effective and lasting change can be achieved through voting rather than demonstrations.

Advocating for Democratic Change

"It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria," Kwankwaso stated. He noted that the country is experiencing avoidable hardship due to missteps by leaders since 2007. However, he believes there is always room for correction and setting the nation on the right path towards economic development, prosperity, and better welfare for its citizens.

Highlighting Governance Failures

Kwankwaso highlighted several crises stemming from poor governance, including:

• Federal interference in Kano State’s chieftaincy matters
• The impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State
• Political turmoil in Rivers State
• Widespread insecurity

He remarked, "Interferences by the Federal Government into the affairs of the chieftaincy matters in Kano State, impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political crisis in Rivers State, sabotage to Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding SAMOA agreement, the conflict between Sen. Ali Ndume and the APC Leadership, widespread insecurity and other criminal acts are a few examples of avoidable and unnecessary crises."

Urging Leaders for Accountability

Kwankwaso pointed out that these issues are symptomatic of a lack of accountability and transparency. "It is sad to note that the attitude of our leaders to poor governance has plunged the citizens, especially youth, into hunger, insecurity, hopelessness, and a sense of giving up on the country," he remarked.

He called on Nigerian leaders at all levels to urgently address these challenges by ensuring good governance and adherence to the rule of law.

Recognizing the Call for Protests

Acknowledging the recent calls for protests, Kwankwaso recognized the collective frustration and yearning for a better Nigeria but cautioned against the potential consequences of such actions. He urged Nigerians to consider the power of their vote as the most effective tool for change.

"In these trying times, our nation stands at a crossroads. Our collective frustration with bad governance has reached a boiling point, and the urge to protest is strong. As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I share your concerns and your desire for change. However, I urge you to consider the consequences of national protests and to channel your energy into a more effective and peaceful means of transformation through the power of your ballot," Kwankwaso advised.

Warning Against Violence

Kwankwaso warned that protests, while a fundamental democratic right, often escalate into violence, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos. "The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us," he noted.

A Call for Unity

"I speak to you not just as an elder and a concerned citizen but as someone who deeply believes in the power and potential of our great nation. Let us put our country first and work together to build the Nigeria we all aspire to see," Kwankwaso advocated.