The Northern Youth Leaders Forum, representing 42 northern youth organizations, has announced that its members will not take part in the planned nationwide protest against hunger and poor governance.
Elliot Afiyo, the National President of the forum, disclosed this in a statement released to journalists on Sunday.
The protest, named #EndBadGovernance, is scheduled to occur in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory from August 1 to 10, in response to the worsening economic situation in the country.
However, the forum claims that the planned protest is intended to destabilize Nigeria, especially the northern region and Abuja, by causing extensive damage to government infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and railways.
Afiyo said, “While acknowledging that protests are legal and constitutional means of expressing citizens’ dissatisfaction with the government, it should be noted that the timing, method, capacity, environment, and necessity for such protests must be considered before they are carried out. In light of these factors, we would like to clarify and reveal the dangerous signals, schedules, strategies, planned activities, and operational guidelines by the promoters of these protests.
“Although the NYLF was willing and prepared to actively participate by mobilising Northern youth, after receiving intelligence reports and briefings, the NYLF has decided not only to withdraw from the protests but also to ensure that the protests do not occur at all.
“We want to make it clear that the majority of the promoters of these protests are not aware of the plans because a minority are collaborating with foreign organizations and governments to execute an international conspiracy against Nigeria.
“We strongly warn the Federal Government and all security agencies to ensure that no more than 10 people are allowed to gather in any part of the country between August 1 and 10, 2024, except for religious gatherings. Even then, there should be proper and diligent screening and checks.
“We want to state clearly that the Northern youth will hold the government and security agencies responsible and regard them as potential collaborators in destroying our country and our future.”
