The Coalition of Niger Delta Civil Society Organisations (CNDCSO) has issued a public statement urging Nigerians to exercise patience and engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to protests in response to the country’s current economic hardships.
The appeal follows an extraordinary meeting held by the coalition with stakeholders and leaders from various groups in the region on Tuesday.
While the civil societoes acknowledge the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians and emphasizes the urgency of finding solutions, they caution against immediate protests, warning that they can be counterproductive and potentially harmful.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been in office for just over a year, and substantial progress requires time,” the coalition stated.
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“We must give his administration the opportunity to fulfill his campaign promises through gradual and steady implementation of his Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The civil society organizations highlighted several reasons for advocating patience and dialogue, including;
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1. Room for Policy Implementation: The coalition stressed that government policies and reforms need time to be effectively implemented. Immediate protests could disrupt this process, hindering potential positive outcomes.
2. Risk of Escalation: They warned that protests could quickly escalate, especially if infiltrated by criminal elements, leading to violence and property damage.
3. National Stability: Maintaining peace and stability is crucial for national development. The coalition noted that unrest could deter foreign investments, disrupt economic activities, and undermine national security.
4. Constructive Engagement: The statement emphasized the importance of dialogue and constructive feedback in shaping policies, offering a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to solving national issues.
5. Respect for Democratic Processes: CNDCSO called for respect for democratic institutions, advocating for patience and constructive criticism over unrest.
6. Focus on Long-Term Solutions: The organization encouraged citizens to focus on long-term solutions rather than reacting to immediate challenges, urging a more sustainable approach to addressing the country’s economic and social problems.
The coalition also supported the appeal for calm made by Chief Government Ekpemukolo, also known as Tompolo, a respected leader in the Niger Delta.
His call for unity and peaceful dialogue was echoed by the CNDCSO, highlighting the need for collective efforts to build a better Nigeria.
In closing, the CNDCSO appealed to all Nigerians to come together in unity and peace, fostering cooperation, resilience, and hope for a brighter future.
