Ahead of the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, the Plateau Communities Youth Leaders Coalition has said it would not take part in the exercise.
The group spoke through its spokesman, Pololis Gyang, at a press briefing in Jos, Plateau State capital.
Gyang said, “We in Plateau State wish to unequivocally dissociate ourselves from the anticipated protest due to the ambiguous and unclear circumstances surrounding it.
“As responsible youth leaders within our respective communities, we are deeply committed to the welfare and well-being of our people. We pursue these objectives with a foundation of equity and reciprocity, aiming for the peace and development of our communities.
“We recognize the devastating impact of the current hardship, pain, and distress our people are enduring. Many have lost their sources of livelihood, and some cannot even provide for themselves and their families.
“We empathize with the yearnings and aspirations of our dear people and express our unwavering commitment to finding constructive ways to alleviate their suffering and improve their living conditions.
“We cannot feign ignorance or indifference to the motives behind those calling for the nationwide protest. We acknowledge the widespread hunger, hardship, and uncertainty regarding the state of our economy.
“However, the suspicious manner in which the protest is being orchestrated raises significant concerns.
“We believe that the right to protest is fundamental and inalienable, particularly in seeking better living conditions for our people. Nonetheless, we remain unconvinced by the motives of the organizers”, he maintained.
“It is impossible for a protest of the proposed scale to be devoid of sponsors, just as it is inconceivable to have smoke without fire. Why have the sponsors of this protest remained hidden and unknown, and why have they failed to clearly articulate the motives behind the protest? These are pressing questions that demand answers.
“As youth leaders in Plateau State, we have witnessed numerous tensions leading to the loss of lives and properties, arising from protests such as ENDSARS and others. Sadly, we continue to live with the devastating effects of such protests to this day”, he decried.
“Moreover, we are aware of the ongoing recruitment of touts, cultists, students, and individuals of questionable character within our communities. We question why the shadow mobilizers for the protest are resorting to such measures if not to foment trouble and cause mayhem”, he further stated.
“We also urge our people to protect their communities from elements seeking to cause pandemonium to further their hidden agendas, which are contrary to the peace and stability of our dear state.
“As a constructive approach to addressing the debilitating economic situation in the country, we are ready and determined to engage the government at all levels in finding lasting solutions to our problems.
“Through constructive dialogue, we are confident that we will achieve our desired goals. We are willing to meet with the government to make recommendations aimed at tackling the economic crisis in the country.
“We choose not to participate in protests that may plunge our state into anarchy, chaos, and untold hardship. We are acutely aware of the repercussions of previous protests that led to the destruction of businesses and the livelihoods of individuals in the state.”