BREAKING: SHUN VIOLENT PROTESTS, DIALOGUE WITH GOVT – C-CODED ADVISES NIGERIANS

CENTRE FOR CIVIL – RELATIONS, OPEN DIALOGUE AND DEVELOPMENT (C-CODED)
WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE
A CLARION CALL ON THE GOOD PEOPLE OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA TO SHUN ANY VIOLENT PROTEST BEING INSTIGATED BY SOME UNPATRIOTIC NIGERIANS IN ORDER TO PRESERVE OUR NATION’S FUTURE.

DATE 31st July 2024
Venue NUJ Press Conference
Time 11:00am

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, fellow Nigerians. Today, we are on a crossroad in our Nation History to either go left or go right in addressing very important national economic and security issues raised by concerned citizens from every work of life. Today we are gather not only to address the growing concerns of our fellow Nigerians but also to offer a path forward that upholds the integrity and unity of our beloved nation. We stand in solidarity with every Nigerian facing the harsh realities of economic hardship, hunger, and frustration. The struggles you endure are not lost on us. However, we must collectively acknowledge that resorting to violent protest, particularly one of this magnitude is not the solution as we have seen in several countries that lie in ruins struggling to be on their feet again and compete with their counterpart countries across the globe. Our adversaries are threatening to destabilize our nation, disrupt our economy, and deepen our divisions. We cannot fold our hands and watch, refusing to speak out.

A nationwide protest, set to occur on August 1, 2024, threatens to plunge our nation into chaos and destruction. It is imperative that we, the citizens of this great country, understand the grave dangers such a violent protest poses and we have choosen a path that fosters unity, economic stability, and national growth. Let’s build than destroy no matter the challenges we all face.

The Arab Spring, for instance, began with hopes of democratic reform but ended in widespread instability and suffering for many nations involved. We cannot afford to ignore these lessons.
A Call to Unity and Constructive Engagement
Fellow Nigerians, particularly our vibrant and resilient youths, it is time to channel our energy towards constructive dialogue and peaceful engagement. Let us not be swayed by those who seek to exploit our frustrations for their own gain. Instead, let us rise above the rhetoric of division and work collaboratively to address our grievances with our Leaders.

Again, we say Dialogue Over Destruction: Let us engage again and again.

The government must recognize that the people are more aware and determined than ever to see the implementation of policies that will elevate Nigeria to its rightful place of greatness. Together, let us foster an environment where all citizens can live, grow, and achieve their dreams.

Thank you.

Amb. Austin Peacemaker Inaede
Executive Director
Centre for Civil Relations Open Dialogue and Development (C-CODED)