The Arewa Citizens Action for Good Leadership (ACAGL), a prominent non-governmental organisation, has called for an extensive investigation into the recent violent protests across the country, particularly focusing on the alleged involvement of foreign interests.
During a press conference, Saeed Sulaiman Umar, the spokesperson for ACAGL, expressed the group’s deep concern over the widespread destruction that accompanied the protests.
“The Arewa Citizens Action for Good Leadership (ACAGL) strongly condemns the violence and bloodshed that overshadowed the demonstrations and calls for a comprehensive investigation into the events surrounding these disturbances,” Umar stated.
On the group’s earlier decision to withdraw from the protests due to fears of possible hijacking by criminal elements, Umar noted that their concerns have unfortunately been validated.
“Our organisation prudently withdrew from participating in the protests, fearing they might be taken over by criminal elements. Regrettably, our worst fears have been confirmed,” he said.
Umar criticized the looting and vandalism that occurred in Kano, which resulted in billions of naira in losses for the state and its residents.
He also raised alarm over reports of protesters in Kano and other states waving foreign flags, a move he described as troubling and indicative of deeper, more sinister motives behind the protests.
The ACAGL expressed support for the government’s decision to freeze the accounts of individuals and groups alleged to be behind the protests.
We have also learned that the accounts of certain individuals and groups alleged to have sponsored these protests have been frozen by the authorities.
” This action is a significant step towards uncovering the truth about the orchestrators behind these demonstrations. However, it is only the beginning, and much more needs to be done to safeguard our nation from both internal and external threats.
” In light of these developments, ACAGL hereby makes the following demands:
” We call for a total and comprehensive investigation into the roles played by foreign interests and their collusion with certain Nigerian elements in infiltrating the protests and the display of foreign flags.
” The involvement of external forces in our national affairs is a serious breach of sovereignty that must not be tolerated.
” ACAGL concurs that the accounts that have been frozen must be meticulously scrutinized. Should the owners of these accounts be found guilty of supporting terrorism or engaging in activities that undermine the security and stability of Nigeria, they should face the full weight of the law. Such individuals are betrayers of our country and must be held accountable and responsible for their actions.
“We demand the diligent prosecution of those found guilty of conspiring with foreign entities to disrupt the peace and unity of Nigeria. This should serve as a deterrent to others who may harbor similar intentions in the future. Nigeria cannot and will not allow itself to be a battleground for foreign interests.
“The ACAGL remains committed to the pursuit of good governance, justice, and the protection of interest of Nigerians especially at grassroots. The recent protests, and the disturbing revelations that have followed, underscore the need for vigilance and decisive action in the face of threats to our national unity.
“We urge all Nigerians to stand firm in defense of our country and to reject any attempts by foreign or domestic actors to sow discord among us. The interests of Nigerian and Nigerians are paramount, and we must collectively work to preserve it without surrendering our sovereignty to any foreign interest,” the group said.
