Christian Leaders in Nigeria Caution against Planned Kenyan-Style Gen Z-led Anti-Government Protests

He adds, “We must also draw from our recent history. The #ENDSARS and #RevolutionNow protests, though rooted in genuine grievances, were marred by tragic incidents where miscreants hijacked the process. This led to widespread looting, destruction of properties, and unfortunate loss of lives.”

Archbishop Okoh says that Nigeria’s experiences of the #ENDSARS and #RevolutionNow protests have shown the country that mass demonstrations can quickly degenerate into chaos if not properly managed and coordinated.

He urges Nigerians to consider alternative means of expressing their grievances, saying, “We recommend giving the government more time to address these pressing concerns.”

He goes on to caution Nigerians against individuals he says could be planning to hijack the protests and cause disorderliness.

“This period should be used to explore other legal avenues that will not easily give hoodlums the opportunity to hijack the exercise to destroy our national assets or endanger lives and properties,” the Archbishop in Christ Holy Church International, an African Independent Church, says.

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He adds that dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings are viable options that can yield positive results “without the risk of disorder.”

Meanwhile, CAN has called on the Nigerian government to reduce the cost of governance and expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the country.

According to the Christian leaders, the “opulence” of Nigerian political leaders must be addressed to demonstrate the sincerity of those in government to improve the living conditions of the people in Africa’s most populous nation.

Likewise, they say, it is imperative that the government implements strategies to provide immediate relief to struggling families.

Specific measures must also be taken to put an end to kidnappings, banditry, and mass killings that CAN says have plagued various parts of the country.

“The security and well-being of every Nigerian should be paramount, and urgent action is required to restore peace and order,” CAN says.

The Christian leaders also call on the Nigerian government to expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the country, saying, “There is an urgent need for more refined and effective policies that address the root causes of the economic challenges we face.”

“The government must deepen its consultations with stakeholders, including religious leaders, to create a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to problem-solving. By working together, we can devise sustainable solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people,” CAN members say.

Agnes Aineah is a Kenyan journalist with a background in digital and newspaper reporting. She holds a Master of Arts in Digital Journalism from the Aga Khan University, Graduate School of Media and Communications and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communications from Kenya's Moi University. Agnes currently serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.