The state of anomie where we find ourselves today as a country incrementally worsened because the citizens failed in their duty to hold governments at all levels accountable.
A former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, has expressed his support for the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protest in Nigeria.
Secondus also took the opportunity to question President Bola Tinubu’s current stance on the matter, drawing attention to Tinubu’s past involvement in protests.
Historical Context and Criticism
In a statement released on Tuesday by his media aide, Ike Abonyi, Secondus reminded Nigerians of President Tinubu’s history with civic action.
“President Tinubu, while in opposition, was a notable arrowhead leading protests against the government,” Secondus pointed out. He questioned the president’s apparent change in position now that he is in power.
Importance of Peaceful Protests
Secondus emphasised the crucial role of peaceful protests in addressing Nigeria’s numerous challenges.
“The state of anomie where we find ourselves today as a country incrementally worsened because the citizens failed in their duty to hold governments at all levels accountable,” he said.
The former PDP leader characterised the planned protest as a non-partisan, pan-Nigerian effort aimed at tackling the nation’s issues.
“This protest should not be discouraged. Protests remain the most potent democratic platform through which the consciousness of nations can be aroused and indeed, the consciousness of the leadership elite can be nudged and compelled to act right in the interest of citizens,” he asserted.
Call for Peace and Security
In his statement, Secondus urged protesters to maintain organisation and peaceful conduct. He also called on the government and security agencies to provide the necessary security to ensure the protest remains peaceful, in line with international law and the Nigerian Constitution.
“This is not the time to sweep issues under the carpet; it is the time to speak truth to power and awaken our collective conscience so that we can work together to build a better society,” the statement concluded.
Secondus’s endorsement of the #EndBadGovernance protest and his challenge to President Tinubu underscore the ongoing tension and the critical role of civic engagement in Nigeria. As the protest approaches, all eyes will be on how both the government and the protesters handle this pivotal moment in the nation’s democratic journey.
