By Stellamaries Amuwa, Abuja
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on protesters to maintain peace and avoid the destruction of properties amid growing concerns that the demonstrations have been hijacked by criminal elements and political actors with nefarious intentions.
In a statement signed by Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, the organization expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and the influence of non-state actors in several states, including Kano. The situation, observed through CISLAC’s situation room, indicates that security operatives are being influenced by political interference linked to local rivalries, leading to inadequate protection of peaceful protesters.
“The peaceful demonstrations by Nigerians, initially intended to express legitimate grievances, have unfortunately been hijacked and turned into violent chaos,” stated Comrade Rafsanjani. “Criminal elements are exploiting the protests to create further unrest and undermine public safety.”
CISLAC emphasized that the government must refrain from politicizing security measures, particularly in Kano, and prioritize the protection of lives and properties. The violence and destruction currently witnessed are contrary to the intentions of the peaceful protesters.
“The government should stop politicizing security in Kano and protect the lives and properties of all. The balkanization of properties and killings witnessed are not in tandem with what innocent Nigerians are calling for,” the statement continued.”
