Auwal Rafsanjani, the Executive Director of CISLAC, denounced the nonviolent protest’s hijacking in several locations in a statement released on Friday in Abuja. He did, however, ask protestors to refrain from damaging private property and public infrastructure in the midst of demanding their protection. Musa conveyed grave concerns about the state of affairs in terms of security and the impact of non-state actors in a number of states, including Kano.
He claimed that the circumstances, as seen through CISLAC’s situation room, showed that security personnel were being swayed by political meddling associated with regional rivalries, resulting in insufficient defense of nonviolent demonstrators.
“Sadly, the nonviolent protests by Nigerians, which were first meant to voice justifiable complaints, have been appropriated and transformed into violent disorder.
He claimed that “criminal elements are taking advantage of the protests to sow more discord and jeopardize public safety.”
CISLAC boss emphasised that the government must refrain from politicising security measures, particularly in Kano, and prioritise the protection of lives and properties. Adding that the violence and destruction currently witnessed were contrary to the intentions of the peaceful protesters. Musa condemned provocative statements made by public officials, which according to him, have exacerbated tensions and incited further unrest. “Reckless and provocative statements by public officials can incite Nigerians to take to the streets. Such statements undermine the legitimacy of the protesters’ concerns and should be avoided,” he said.
He said CISLAC had previously called on the government to ensure the protection of peaceful protesters, a measure that, if properly implemented, could have prevented the current state of chaos. He criticized the government for allegedly sponsoring counter-protests meant to undermine the lawful demonstrations. “The government’s actions have endangered peaceful protesters, leading to attacks and hijacking by thugs and non-state actors,” he said.
“We have noticed concerning patterns, and we implore sincere demonstrators to carry on with their peaceful protests in order to stop lawbreakers from taking advantage of the circumstances. “All Nigerians are urged to abstain from acts of violence, criminal activity, and political devastation. Musa stated, “The protests should not be associated with criminal activity or violence as they are intended to address valid problems. He declared that the CISLAC was still dedicated to promoting the defense of citizens’ rights and making sure that their opinions were heard in a way that was both secure and nonviolent.
