The Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence (AYPC) has cautioned Nigerians against participating in a protest being organised by activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, to demand the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement issued during a press briefing in Abuja, the FCT Coordinator of the group, Ogah Okpanachi, alleged that the planned protest, scheduled for Monday, is not a genuine call for justice but a deliberate attempt to discredit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and incite unrest across the country.
Okpanachi claimed that intelligence reports available to the group suggest the demonstration is a politically motivated plot to destabilise the nation.
> “Nigeria has gone beyond the era of destructive street protests orchestrated by political opportunists masquerading as activists,” Okpanachi said.
The group urged Nigerians to learn from the negative aftermath of the 2020 EndSARS protests, which it said resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, and severe economic setbacks.
> “We wish to draw the attention of all patriotic Nigerians to Sowore’s planned protest under the guise of demanding Nnamdi Kanu’s release. We categorically reject this call and urge every peace-loving citizen to resist this misguided attempt to destabilise our country,” he stated.
AYPC emphasized that Nigeria operates under the rule of law, with an independent judiciary capable of handling cases, including that of Nnamdi Kanu. It warned that no individual or group has the right to take laws into their own hands or attempt to pressure the courts through street demonstrations.
The group further accused Sowore and his associates of exploiting national issues for selfish political gain.
Reaffirming its support for President Tinubu’s administration, AYPC praised the government’s efforts under the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” noting improvements in infrastructure, security, economic revitalisation, and youth empowerment.
> “President Tinubu has shown unmatched commitment to Nigeria’s unity, peace, and prosperity,” Okpanachi said. “His administration is investing in roads, railways, education, power, agriculture, and social welfare to rebuild a stronger and more inclusive nation.”
He called on Nigerian youths to reject violence and focus on unity and development.
> “Nigerians of good conscience must rise to defend our progress. Let us build, not break; cooperate, not confront. Our greatness will come through collective effort, dialogue, and support for democratic institutions,” he added.
The Arewa Youths concluded by urging citizens to stand with the government in promoting peace, stability, and national growth.
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