The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre has called for the protection of protesters amid growing concerns that the demonstrations have been hijacked by criminal elements and political actors with nefarious intentions.
In a statement on Friday in Abuja, the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, condemned the hijack of the peaceful protest in some places.
While calling for the protection of protesters, he, however, urged them not to destroy properties and public infrastructure.
Musa expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and the influence of non-state actors in several states, including Kano.
“The peaceful demonstrations by Nigerians, initially intended to express legitimate grievances, have unfortunately been hijacked and turned into violent chaos.
“Criminal elements are exploiting the protests to create further unrest and undermine public safety,” he said.
CISLAC boss emphasised that the government must refrain from politicising security measures, particularly in Kano, and prioritise the protection of lives and properties.
Adding that the violence and destruction currently witnessed were contrary to the intentions of the peaceful protesters.
Musa condemned provocative statements made by public officials, which according to him, have exacerbated tensions and incited further unrest.
“Reckless and provocative statements by public officials can incite Nigerians to take to the streets. Such statements undermine the legitimacy of the protesters’ concerns and should be avoided,” he said.
He criticised the government’s alleged sponsorship of counter-protests aimed at undermining the legitimate demonstrations.
“The government’s actions have endangered peaceful protesters, leading to attacks and hijacking by thugs and non-state actors,”
he said.
He said CISLAC had previously called on the government to ensure the protection of peaceful protesters, a measure that, if properly implemented, could have prevented the current state of chaos.
