The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the Nigerian government to set a clear timeline for addressing citizens’ grievances rather than suppressing protests. This appeal comes ahead of the #EndBadGovernance protest. In a press statement, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, highlighted the need for urgent action on critical issues such as inflation, unemployment, corruption, insecurity, and the erosion of institutional integrity.
“Inflation, unemployment, corruption, and insecurity are critical challenges that need urgent attention. The integrity of our institutions is in question, and it is imperative to restore trust and confidence so that citizens can once again believe in their country,” the statement read.
CISLAC emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of protesters, noting that peaceful protest is a fundamental right in Nigeria. “Protesters must be protected. This is a democratic right, and the government should ensure their safety. The protests should not be framed along religious, ethnic, and political lines; rather, the government at all levels should listen to and address the genuine concerns of the people,” CISLAC stated.
The organization also urged local and state governments to resolve issues constructively rather than exerting undue pressure on protesters, which could provoke further unrest. “Addressing the issues raised is crucial. The government must set a clear timeframe for resolving these problems instead of merely attempting to halt protests or arresting those who want to protest,” Rafsanjani emphasized.
CISLAC raised concerns over the military’s involvement in handling domestic issues, which should be the responsibility of the police and the Department of State Services (DSS). “The military should not assume the role of the police in domestic matters. Professionalism and restraint are essential to avoid escalating tensions,” Rafsanjani cautioned.
They also urged protesters to remain responsible and vigilant against individuals seeking to exploit the protests for negative purposes. “Protesters must remain peaceful and vigilant. The police should protect them and ensure the protest does not escalate due to the actions of those with malicious intentions,” he noted. The statement also called for comprehensive measures to address the issues at hand, allowing citizens to freely express their opinions on government actions.
“In a democratic setting, every individual should have the right to express their views on government performance. President Bola Tinubu, himself a product of protest, should understand and respect this right,” Rafsanjani said. “CISLAC stands firmly with the citizens in their right to peaceful protest and calls on the government to act with urgency and responsibility in addressing the concerns raised by Nigerians. CISLAC also called on governments at both state and national levels to release those who have been arrested for expressing their desire to join peaceful protests for positive change,” the statement concluded.
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