*Says losses from arsonists, looting by hoodlums will cause more excruciating pains
By JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
While expressing its reservations and deepest concern over the proposed #Endhungerprotest billed for August 1 to 10 2024, Frontline group, Arewa Youth Forum (AYF) has expressed fears that it could be hijacked by hoodlums or other enemies of the country.
AYF expressed this in a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Mohammed Ahmed Zagi, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday July 29.
“We are worried that the planned protest, which is scheduled for August 1 to 10 has potentials of becoming violent and out hand that will be inimical and disruptive to the socio-economic settings in the country. This is because hoodlums wait for such opportunities to unleash mayhem, loot, burn shops, worship centres and other public properties.
“At this time that Nigeria is going through economic hardship, any further losses from arsonists or looting by hoodlums will cause more excruciating pains, hence we appeal for a second thought from the organisers and sponsors of the protest,” the statement said.
While acknowledging that those agitating for the planned protest have legitimate reasons to do so in a democratic clime, AYF suggested the exploring of other means of reaching out to the government, especially at a point when many concerned stakeholders have met with the President to drive home the grievances of Nigerians.
“We are all witnesses to the untold hardship citizens are going through following the inflation that is ripping through our economy. We however, caution that other means of reaching to the government for dialogue should be adopted instead of protests which may turn bloody, causing more pains,” the statement said.
AYF tasked the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government, state governors and political office holders to urgently look into the sufferings of majority of Nigerians and provide succor within the shortest period of time.