Hunger Protests: CPTA Kicks Against Violence, Tasks Govt on Addressing Economic Hardships
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The Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA), a sociopolitical non-profit organization has condemned the rising spate of violence that marred the ongoing nationwide protests across some states in Nigeria due to rising costs of living.
This information was disclosed today at a world press conference held on Friday in Abuja.
The Executive Director of CPTA, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero, enjoined the citizens to shun violence and embrace peaceful approaches such as dialogue in registering their grievances to the authorities.
However, Mr. Patrick has equally tasked the government with addressing the root causes of this unrest to avert similar occurrences in the future while still urging it to deploy feasible measures to arrest the ongoing protests.
On the other hand, the Executive Director decried the act of flying and waving Russian flags by some protesters and labeled Nigeria as failed a state while calling for President Vladimir Putin to intervene.
He said: “It is deeply disheartening to witness hoodlums exploiting the ongoing nationwide hunger protests to engage in the destruction of critical infrastructure and the looting of properties especially in states like Kano, Kaduna and Plateau just to mention but few. Such actions not only undermine the genuine grievances of the protesters but also inflict further hardship on our already suffering communities.
“Another particular concern is the disturbing trend of some protesters flying and waving Russian flags while calling for President Vladimir Putin to intervene in Nigeria’s affairs and labeling our beloved nation as a failed state. This act is not only a disservice to our nation but also constitutes treason and is tantamount to a felony. It is imperative for all Nigerians to remember their patriotic duty and to refrain from actions that compromise our nation’s sovereignty and integrity.
“Engaging in violent protests as a means of expressing grievances can have profound implications, both immediate and long-term, for individuals, communities, and nations. While the intent behind such actions is often rooted in genuine frustration and a desire for change, the outcomes can be complex and far-reaching.
“At this juncture, the CPTA urges the federal government to take immediate and effective measures to curtail the ongoing unrest. These measures must prioritize the safeguarding and respecting of fundamental human rights, ensuring that any response to the protests does not result in further harm to innocent citizens.
“Furthermore, it is essential for the government to urgently address the root causes of the protests. The persistent delay in the allocation of funds from the federation account to various government agencies and departments has exacerbated the suffering of many Nigerians. It is unacceptable that more than six months have passed without these crucial allocations, hindering the ability of these bodies to perform their functions, including the payment of contractors who provide essential development projects for our citizens.
“While the CPTA acknowledges the legitimate frustrations of the Nigerian citizens, we strongly urge all people to shun violence and embrace peaceful means of demonstrating their grievances. Dialogue remains the most effective and constructive approach to resolving conflicts and achieving lasting solutions.
“In a nutshell, the CPTA calls for a united and peaceful approach to addressing the challenges facing our nation. It is only through collaboration, understanding, and mutual respect that we can overcome the current crisis and build a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria for all.”
