The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has disassociated itself from the “Take It Back Movement” nationwide protest scheduled for Monday while suing for peace, especially among the youths.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports the Nigeria Police Force has called on the organisers of the planned protest to rescind their decision.
The police described the timing of the demonstration as ill-conceived and mischievous.
The National President of NYCN, Isah Abubakar, made the call in a statement on Sunday in Kaduna.
He said they reached their decision considering the fragile state of the country, particularly Northern Nigeria, and the potential for further unrest.
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Abubukar said: “We wish to stress the need to prioritise peace and unity during these critical times.
“We are urging Nigerian youths to explore alternative and non-violent means to express their concerns.
“We are deeply concerned about the escalating tensions across various regions and the current socio-political climate.”
Abubakar stated that NYCN was committed to empowering and developing Nigerian youths in spite of the frustrations and aspirations of young Nigerians.
He added: “In the light of the current situation, the nation requires calm, dialogue and patience rather than actions that could further destabilise the fragile peace many patriotic Nigerians are working hard to uphold.”
The national president, however, said NYCN recognised the legitimacy of the grievances that led to the calls for protest.
He emphasised that peace and national stability should remain the highest priorities.
Reflecting on the recent #End Bad Governance protest, he said the council expressed concern over the loss of lives and property valued at millions of Naira.
Abubukar sadly recalled that the protests were hijacked by hoodlums and miscreants.
“No one desires a repeat of such tragic events,” he said.
He emphasised the crucial need for unity as one force to advocate rights and work together to build stronger and more inclusive Nigeria.
He, therefore, urged Nigerian youths to remain calm, avoid any form of violence, and continue engaging in peaceful and legitimate activities.
According to Abubukar, this is to allow the government to address the pressing issues at hand.
He also urged young Nigerians to come together in solidarity, not protests, but through peaceful and constructive engagements that could foster lasting change.
He reiterated the council’s commitment to working alongside government agencies and stakeholders to ensure that the voices of the youths were heard through peaceful and appropriate channels.