The National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has argued that mass action is not a solution to the myriad of problems bedeviling the country. In a statement he personally signed on Friday amidst widespread discontent and calls for demonstrations, Sen. Kwankwaso emphasized that effective and lasting change can be achieved through the power of the ballot.
Acknowledging the collective frustration and yearning for a better Nigeria, the former Governor cautioned against the potential consequences of protests or mass action. He urged Nigerians to consider their vote as the most effective tool for change.
“In these trying times, our nation stands at a crossroads. Our collective frustration with bad governance has reached a boiling point, and the urge to protest is strong. As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I share your concerns and your desire for change,” Kwankwaso stated.
“However, I urge you to consider the consequences of national protests and to channel your energy into a more effective and peaceful means of transformation through the power of your ballot,” he advised.
Kwankwaso recognized protests as a fundamental democratic right but warned that they often escalate into violence, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos. “The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us,” he added.
“I speak to you not just as an elder and a concerned citizen but as someone who deeply believes in the power and potential of our great nation. It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria. We find ourselves in avoidable hardship because our leaders missed some steps since 2007,” Kwankwaso stated.
“However, there is always room for correction and setting the country on the right track for economic development, prosperity, and better welfare of citizens.”
Kwankwaso highlighted several crises stemming from poor governance, such as federal interference in Kano State’s chieftaincy matters, the impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political turmoil in Rivers State, and widespread insecurity.
“Interferences by the Federal Government into the affairs of the chieftaincy matters in Kano State, impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political crisis in Rivers State, sabotage to Aliko Dangote refinery. Controversies surrounding the Samoa agreement, the conflict between Sen. Ali Ndume and the APC Leadership, widespread insecurity, and other criminal acts are a few examples of avoidable and unnecessary crises,” he stated.
He maintained that these issues are symptomatic of a lack of accountability and transparency. “It is sad to note that the attitude of our leaders to poor governance has plunged the citizens, especially youth, into hunger, insecurity, hopelessness, and a sense of giving up on the country,” Kwankwaso lamented.
He called on Nigerian leaders at all levels to urgently address these challenges by ensuring good governance and adherence to the rule of law.
