In a bold and controversial statement, former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari has declared that protests are not the solution to Nigeria’s deep-rooted problems. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Yari urged Nigerians to seek constructive dialogue and cooperation with the government instead of taking to the streets in demonstrations.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The backdrop of Yari’s statement is the wave of protests that have recently engulfed major cities across Nigeria. Sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with governance, economic hardship, and systemic corruption, the demonstrations have seen thousands of citizens, particularly the youth, demanding immediate reforms and accountability from the government. The situation has escalated in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, with clashes between protesters and security forces resulting in injuries and disruptions to daily life.
Addressing the media, Yari acknowledged the legitimacy of the protesters’ grievances but cautioned against the potential consequences of continued unrest. “I understand the frustration and anger of our people,” he said. “However, taking to the streets and causing chaos will not solve our problems. It will only create more instability and hardship for everyone.”
Yari’s statement reflects a perspective held by some political leaders who believe that protests, while a form of expression, can lead to unintended negative outcomes such as violence, economic disruption, and further polarization of the society. He argued that the focus should instead be on dialogue and working within existing political frameworks to achieve change.
“True change comes through constructive engagement, not through chaos and anarchy,” Yari emphasized. He urged the government to open channels for dialogue with the protesters and to take their concerns seriously. “The government must listen to the people and act swiftly to address their needs. Ignoring these voices is not an option, but responding with force is also not the solution.”
Yari’s call for dialogue is seen as a potential path forward amid the current tensions. He suggested the formation of a bipartisan committee comprising government officials, civil society leaders, and representatives of the protesters to discuss the issues at hand and find mutually agreeable solutions. “We need to sit down together, understand each other, and work out a way forward that is beneficial for all Nigerians,” he said.
Despite his call for calm and dialogue, Yari’s remarks were met with mixed reactions. Many protesters and activists view his statements as out of touch with the reality of their daily struggles. “We have been dialoguing for years with no results,” said a protester in Lagos. “Protests are our way of making sure our voices are heard.”
Others, however, believe that Yari’s approach could provide a framework for peaceful resolution. “Dialogue has to be part of the process,” said a political analyst. “Protests highlight the issues, but sustainable change comes from negotiations and reforms.”
As the protests continue, the nation stands at a crossroads. The government faces mounting pressure to address the root causes of the unrest, including poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Meanwhile, protesters are determined to keep up the momentum until they see tangible changes.
Yari’s call for dialogue presents a possible avenue for de-escalation, but it will require genuine commitment from both the government and the protesters. Trust, which has been eroded over years of unfulfilled promises, will need to be rebuilt. The success of any dialogue will depend on the willingness of both sides to engage in honest and open discussions.
In the coming days, the direction Nigeria takes will be crucial. Whether through protests or dialogue, the ultimate goal remains the same: a better Nigeria for all its citizens. As Yari aptly put it, “We all want the same thing – a country that works for everyone. Let’s find a way to achieve that together.”