The Peace Corps of Nigeria has called on Nigerians, particularly those aggrieved, to engage in dialogue with President Bola Tinubu instead of proceeding with the nationwide protests scheduled for August 1. The protests are in response to the hardships currently facing the nation. The Corps suggests high-level consultations to better understand and resolve the issues prompting the planned action.
Call for
Dialogue Over Protests
During
a World Press Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, National Commandant Dr. Dickson
Akoh emphasized that protests at this time could exacerbate the country's
economic and political issues rather than solve them. Akoh stressed the
importance of avoiding any actions detrimental to the well-being of the
citizenry, especially the marginalized.
Statements
from Dr. Dickson Akoh
Dr.
Akoh underscored the Peace Corps' stance on avoiding actions that could lead to
a crisis. He stated:
It is the stand of the Corps that any step that carries the potential to metamorphose into a crisis situation should be considered inimical to the general good of the country and the entire citizenry.
As
a youth organization concerned with national affairs, the Peace Corps urges a
cautious approach to handling the delicate situation at hand.
Concerns
About Economic and Social Stability
Akoh
acknowledged the severe economic realities, including increased poverty, that
are visible to all. He expressed concerns about the potential aftermath of the
proposed protests and urged organizers to consider dialogue and persuasion
instead. Protests, he warned, could be exploited by adversaries to further
destabilize the country.
Addressing
the Root Issues
The
Corps recognizes the significant issues driving the protest, such as:
- Rising
inflation
- Unemployment
- Hunger
- Insecurity
- General
economic hardships
These
issues have severe consequences on the average Nigerian, particularly the youth
and women, and could further destabilize national security.
Government
Reforms and Patience
While
acknowledging the challenges brought by ongoing reforms, Akoh reminded that
President Tinubu's administration is still new, being only a year and two
months in office. The administration inherited numerous issues, including high
insecurity levels, and has shown strong willingness to address them.
Realistically, it is impossible to expect that these complex challenges, which have existed for over three decades, will be resolved overnight.
Appeal
for Patience and Support
The
Peace Corps of Nigeria passionately appeals to all Nigerians, especially the
youth, to exercise patience and support President Tinubu in implementing his
programs and policies for the ultimate benefit of the nation.
Conclusion
In summary, the Peace Corps urges Nigerians to choose dialogue over protests to foster a better understanding and resolution of the country's pressing issues. They highlight the importance of patience and collective support in overcoming the nation's challenges.
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