Conference of Civil Society of Nigeria has called on the federal government to march every word on resolving the issues that gave rise to street protests by youths with actions.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the Chairperson Conference of Civil Society of Nigeria, Comrade Adams Otakwu, said practical steps taken to fulfill pronouncements by the government will build greater public trust and confidence.
He said “this development is very sad, considering the fact that the original concern of the protest (which was to end police brutality) was shared by almost all, until it assumed the current sad dimension.
Otaku continued “this has left us without any other option than to urge on all Civil Societies, Citizen Groups, our vibrant Youths, the Social and traditional media, Nigerians in Diaspora, State Governments, Federal Government and all Nigerians to consider the soul of our country and quickly douse the tension.
“This is our only country as most of us have no dual citizenship. The country belongs to all of us. We are equal stakeholders and we must not allow the country to go aflame. Let’s collectively (as citizens and government) preserve the soul of Nigeria and own the country.
“We welcome the expression of commitment on the part of the Federal Government to meet the five demands of the protest as well as the willingness to engage with citizens and groups. We urge the Government to march every word with practical actions. This will build greater public trust and confidence.”
“As we await justice for victims of police brutality with about 13 states having constituted their panels of enquiry, we urge the rest of the concerned states to respond promptly, as well as pay urgent attention to the Victims Support Fund.”
While condemning very strong term brutality by the Police or any other form of brutality in Nigeria, the group stressed that we must demonstrate to the international community that as Giant of Africa we are capable of resolving our internal crisis amicably, without resorting to violence.
“We call for an end to the protest that has turned violent, In order to avoid it being ultimately hijacked and misused by sinister Interests
“We must not allow the further loss of any single blood again. The best way forward now is meaningful engagement between Government and citizens on pragmatic measures to end police brutality, ensure good governance, reduce poverty, create employment, tackle Insecurity and end corruption. We stand for the reform, re-professionalization and improved welfare of the police and other security agencies.”
“We call on our religious and traditional leaders to raise their voices against the violence and appeal for calm across the country, as we all reaffirm hope In the Nigerian project.”
