A former member of THE House of Representatives, Shina Abiola Peller has appealed to Nigerians who are protesting against the widespread hunger and lack of necessities of life across the country not to be involved in violence and destruction of property.
Peller, who represented Iseyin/Itesiwaju/ Iwajowa /Kajola federal constituency in Oyo state between 2019 and 2023 made the appeal in a press release, calling on protesters to ensure a no-violence rally and maintain the integrity of their cause.
The former lawmaker said protests serve as potent assertions of societal values, provide a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and demand for accountability, shining a light on injustices and compelling those in power to listen, particularly in a democratic system of government.
He advised the federal government to engage the citizens and address grievances before they escalate to the point of protest and asked security personnel to exercise professionalism and restraint during the protest.
The former lawmaker said, “The palpable hunger and anger pervasive in our communities are undeniable. An old adage rings true – a hungry man is an angry man. During my interactions with the people, especially those at the grassroots level, their distress is unmistakable. This deep-rooted dissatisfaction underscores the urgency for actionable change.
“Protests serve as a fundamental pillar of democracy, providing a platform for the collective voice of the people to reverberate. I firmly believe in the efficacy of peaceful protests as a mechanism to articulate our grievances and demand accountability from the government. They hold the power to effectuate tangible reforms, expose injustices, and ensure that our leaders remain answerable to the populace.
“Amidst the impending protest, it is incumbent upon both protesters and the government to engage in dialogue, ensuring that the trajectory remains peaceful. It is time to address the root causes of this discontent. To bring about real change, we must understand and respond to the struggles and aspirations of our people.
“And to the security agencies, I urge you to exercise restraint and respect the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and free speech. Remember, your role is to protect and serve, not to suppress or intimidate. Avoid using excessive force, which can escalate tensions and lead to unnecessary violence. By allowing peaceful protests to unfold without interference, you can help prevent chaos and ensure a safer environment for everyone involved”.
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