The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has appealed to the government and organizers of the planned nationwide protest to call off the demonstration and instead engage in dialogue to address the country’s challenges. In a letter signed by its President, Yakubu Maikyau, the NBA expressed concerns about the potential devastating effects of the protest on the country’s security and economy.
The association noted that while it understands the frustrations of Nigerians, it believes that dialogue and engagement with the government are more effective ways to address the issues. The NBA recommended that a National Security Summit be convened to bring together security experts and stakeholders to find solutions to the country’s security challenges.
Additionally, the NBA called on members of the National and State Houses of Assembly to engage with their constituents and address their demands. The association also emphasized the need for traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to be involved in the dialogue and implementation of decisions.
The NBA’s appeal comes as the planned protest, tagged ‘#EndBadGovernance’, is expected to take place from August 1-10, 2024. The protest aims to address issues of hunger, poverty, and insecurity in the country. However, the government and some stakeholders have expressed concerns about the potential risks and consequences of the protest.
