Leaders of civil society organizations in Nigeria have appealed for dialogue over protest ahead of the October 1st Independence Day celebration. Addressing a press conference today, Adams Otakwu, Chairperson of the Conference of Civil Societies and Coordinator of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO), made a strong call for peace and calm as the nation braces for upcoming protests. Speaking on the theme “A Call for Calm in the Overall Interest of National Security,” Otakwu highlighted the violence and destruction of the August 1, 2024 protests, which were hijacked by thugs and led to tragic losses.
Otakwu emphasized that allowing further unrest could push Nigeria towards the chaos seen in conflict-torn nations like Afghanistan, Syria, Sudan, and Congo. “We have witnessed the devastating impact of protests escalating into full-blown conflict in other nations. Nigeria must not go down this path,” he warned.
Mr. Joseph Odeh, Executive Director of Leadwatch, also called for restraint, urging Nigerians to opt for dialogue over violent protest. “We must choose dialogue as a peaceful means to resolve our differences. Protests can lead to unintended violence, and that will only harm our country,” Odeh stated.
Mr. David Acheme, Executive Director of Community Initiative for Transparency, further stressed the need for peaceful resolutions, urging citizens to avoid the dangers of violence. “Dialogue is our best tool for addressing the challenges we face as a nation. Violence will only make things worse,” Acheme said.
Madam Walter Elisabeth, President of Global Safe Haven Organisation, echoed the call for national unity and peaceful discourse. “We must stand together as one nation and work towards solutions through dialogue. Violence will only divide and weaken us,” she emphasized.
The press conference ended with a united message from all speakers, urging Nigerians to choose dialogue, peace, and unity as the country faces its current challenges
