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Dr. Joseph Ighalo-Edoro Advocates for Dynamic and Defined Protest Strategies in Nigeria(video)
In an exclusive interview with Societal Concerns Media Networks, Dr. Joseph Ighalo-Edoro, a noted social analyst, discussed the current state of protests in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to develop dynamic and clearly defined types of protests to effectively express their grievances without causing unnecessary fear or disruption.
Dr. Ighalo-Edoro acknowledged the legitimacy of the public's discontent, citing widespread issues such as hunger, inadequate healthcare, and overall dissatisfaction with the quality of life in the country. He noted that "hunger" extends beyond the physical need for food, encompassing a broader desire for essential services and basic rights.
"The recent protests reflect deep-seated frustrations among Nigerians, but the absence of a well-defined protest strategy often leads to chaos and fear," he stated. Dr. Ighalo-Edoro identified various forms of protest, including peaceful marches, demonstrations, picketing, and vigils. However, he expressed concern that Nigeria has not yet established a consistent and dynamic approach to protest, which has resulted in public apprehension and governmental suppression.
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Reflecting on the #EndSARS movement of 2020, Dr. Ighalo-Edoro highlighted the spontaneous nature of the protests and the ensuing violence as factors contributing to the current climate of fear. "The government and the public are wary due to the unpredictable nature of past protests, which unfortunately led to violence and destruction," he explained. He stressed the importance of maintaining peaceful and orderly demonstrations, urging the government to protect protesters' constitutional rights while also safeguarding public property.
Dr. Ighalo-Edoro warned against allowing "bad elements" to hijack protests, as seen during the #EndSARS protests. He noted that the government's tendency to suppress protests often stems from fear of these movements escalating into uncontrolled chaos.
Ahead of a planned mass protest in August, Dr. Ighalo-Edoro advised both the government and the public to approach the situation with caution and respect for the law. He called on the government to protect the rights of peaceful protesters and emphasized that protests are a legitimate means for citizens to voice their concerns.
"Protest is a constitutional right," he stated. "It serves as a crucial avenue for expressing dissatisfaction with certain issues. The government should not only tolerate it but also facilitate a safe environment for such expressions, ensuring that all voices can be heard without crossing the line into lawlessness."
Dr. Ighalo-Edoro's insights shed light on the need for a more structured and dynamic approach to protests in Nigeria, one that balances the public's right to expression with the necessity of maintaining peace and order.
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