Planned nationwide protest: Finding peaceful pathways (II) – Our Security, Our Peace by Prof. O.E Bassey

“Public support and cooperation are also vital for the success of the protest. Engaging with local communities and informing them about the protest’s objectives and peaceful intentions can help garner broader support. By addressing concerns and promoting understanding, organizers can foster a sense of shared purpose and ensure that the protest is seen as a legitimate and positive force for change. Community involvement can also act as a safeguard against potential disruptions and encourage a collective adherence to non-violent principles.”

With momentum for the planned nationwide protest still as thick, it has not ceased to come with it a deluge of cautions against violence in the demonstration of opposition towards ‘bad governance’ as themed the protest.

Billed to hold from August 1-10, the nation with all its security apparatus is getting set for what will be a 10-day civil movement which the government has vowed not to stop but warned against destruction of properties and its potential evolution into violence.

It is important that the message of no violence be preached heavily so as to ensure that the purpose of the demonstration is not defeated but achieved. It is important that amid the energy going into the week, people make it a point of duty to be nationally conscious and rather pursue issues than personalities or properties.

It must therefore be stated that to achieve this, the role of leadership within the movement becomes critical. Effective leadership can guide participants, set a positive tone, and ensure that the protest remains focused on its core objectives. Leaders must emphasise the importance of peaceful conduct and serve as role models for participants. By demonstrating a commitment to non-violence and responsible behavior, they can inspire others to follow suit and help maintain order throughout the demonstration.

There is also where the media comes in, and that touches on shaping public perception of the protest. During this period, media outlets have the responsibility of reporting on the event with accuracy and fairness while avoiding sensationalism that could exacerbate tensions. By highlighting the peaceful nature of the protest and instead focusing on the substantive issues being raised, the media can contribute to a constructive dialogue and support the movement’s goals. Responsible journalism can help counteract negative narratives and reinforce the protest’s commitment to non-violence.

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Public support and cooperation are also vital for the success of the protest. Engaging with local communities and informing them about the protest’s objectives and peaceful intentions can help garner broader support. By addressing concerns and promoting understanding, organizers can foster a sense of shared purpose and ensure that the protest is seen as a legitimate and positive force for change. Community involvement can also act as a safeguard against potential disruptions and encourage a collective adherence to non-violent principles.

And it is also not too late to have impartial observers from the international world coming into the mix. With international observers, their presence can provide an additional layer of accountability and help ensure that the demonstration adheres to principles of non-violence. Drawing international attention to the protest, observers can help reinforce the importance of maintaining a peaceful approach and highlight the movement’s commitment to constructive reform. This external oversight can also offer support and encouragement to participants, reinforcing the protest’s legitimacy on a global scale.

Finally, I must note that the impacts of protest extends beyond the immediate outcomes. The manner in which the protest is conducted can set a precedent for future civic engagements and movements. A successful demonstration that adheres to non-violence and remains focused on its objectives can serve as a model for future efforts and inspire other groups to pursue their goals through peaceful means. By upholding these standards, participants can contribute to a culture of constructive and respectful advocacy, reinforcing the power of peaceful protest as a tool for positive change.

Ecclesiastes 7:5

It is better to take note of the protest of the wise, than for a man to give ear to the song of the foolish.

Meanwhile, I am delighted to inform you that come October, 1, 2024, we at NISSI Safety Management Institute: An Institute famous for Peace Leadership will be celebrating our 20th Anniversary.

To this end is our campaign to spread the education of peace leadership to both the old and young, women and children in various places from corporate organisations, to political organizations, worship centers, educational institutions, markets and communities.

It is our belief that the more educated the people are in respect to peace leadership, the more peaceful our country will become.

So this is a call to action to hop on our Peace campaign train, to arm yourself, your friends, your colleagues, your employees, and your congregation with contemporary peace leadership knowledge that makes for a happier and more fulfilled life, personally and collectively.

Kindly call or send a message on Whatsapp to +2347065828892, to be a beneficiary of this.