CAN Seeks Peaceful Resolution, Asks Nigerians to Shelve Protest

CAN cautions against protest, encourages peaceful expression...

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urges citizens to explore alternative avenues for voicing discontent, while advising the government to address pressing issues and reduce the cost of governance, amidst growing unease and calls for protests.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a plea to Nigerians who are considering taking to the streets to protest, urging them to explore alternative avenues for voicing their discontent.

CAN also advised the government to be given a reasonable timeframe to tackle the pressing issues affecting the nation, advocating for patience and constructive engagement over public demonstrations.

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), issued a statement on Friday in Abuja, urging Nigerians to utilize this time to pursue alternative legal channels for expressing their grievances, thereby preventing hoodlums from exploiting the situation and hijacking the protest.

“Dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings are viable options that can yield positive results without the risk of disorder. CAN stands in solidarity with the citizens of our great nation during these challenging times of economic hardship and pervasive hunger.

“We recognise and deeply empathise with the pain, anger, and frustration that many of our fellow Nigerians are experiencing. The cries of the people underscore the severe difficulties faced daily as families struggle to afford basic necessities and sustain their livelihoods.

“As we navigate this period of crisis, it is imperative to uphold the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to peacefully protest and express their grievances. The right to assemble and voice discontent is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be protected and respected by all,” he said.

Archbishop Okoh noted that the looming protests have sparked growing unease, particularly in light of the tumultuous experiences of countries like Kenya and Pakistan, where similar demonstrations have escalated into chaos, underscoring the need for caution and alternative approaches.

"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. These experiences have shown us that mass demonstrations can quickly degenerate into chaos if not properly managed and coordinated,” he said.

Archbishop Okoh also urged the government to take decisive action to reduce the high cost of governance and accelerate its efforts to alleviate the widespread suffering in the country. He emphasized that the extravagant lifestyle of political leaders must be curbed, as a tangible demonstration of their commitment to genuinely improving the lives of citizens and bridging the gap between the rulers and the ruled.

“Likewise, it is imperative that the government implements the newly approved national minimum wage to provide immediate relief to struggling families. We also call on the government to expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the land.

“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,” he added.