The Coalition of Concerned Northern Youths and Students has announced its withdrawal from the planned nationwide mass protests against the prevailing economic hardships in Nigeria. The National Coordinator of the Coalition, Jibril Bello-Gama, disclosed this decision during a news conference following a two-day meeting in Kano on Wednesday.
Bello-Gama explained that the coalition members would not participate in the protests due to uncertainty about the organizers and their motives. “We took the decision during our two-day meeting here in Kano and therefore directed our members not to participate in the mass actions scheduled to begin from the end of this month,” he stated.
Bello-Gama, who also serves as the National Senate President of the National Association of Kano State Students, urged members to refrain from participating in the planned nationwide protests. “The organizers of these protests are unknown, and we are uncertain whether their intentions are peaceful or violent. Your safety and well-being are our top priority. We understand the economic hardship in Nigeria, but as students, your future is paramount.”
He emphasized the government’s efforts to support students, noting, “This administration has shown consideration for students by making educational loans available without interest, ensuring that you can focus on your studies now and secure jobs in the future to repay these loans.”
Bello-Gama cited previous instances where protests led to academic disruptions, specifically mentioning Dangote University of Science and Technology Wudil and Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, where students experienced elongated academic calendars due to protests in the 2017/2018 academic session. “We know there are economic hardships in the country, but two wrongs cannot make a right. Let’s prioritize our education and future success,” he added.
This decision comes in response to recent notices from faceless groups urging Nigerians to prepare for nationwide mass protests against the government’s alleged insensitivity to the people’s plight in handling the current multifaceted challenges facing the country.
