Written by Odewaleadesoye

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As we approach the dates for the planned nationwide protests, I urge everyone to pause and consider the potential consequences of our actions.
Protests are indeed a constitutional right, but we must be mindful of the potential risks and unintended outcomes.

Here are some crucial points to ponder:
1. During the 2020 #EndSARS protests, many lives were tragically lost, and countless properties were damaged. It is possible that a similar outcome could occur if the current protests escalate. The chaotic scenes from that period serve as a stark reminder of the possible repercussions.

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2. The majority of those who lost their lives or had their properties destroyed during the #EndSARS protests were ordinary citizens. The damages predominantly affected businesses and properties owned by the average Nigerian, not the government officials who were the target of the protests. We must consider whether it is worth risking further harm to our communities and businesses.

3. There is a real risk that the protests could be hijacked by groups with ulterior motives, leading to violence and destruction. When protests are taken over by extremists or opportunists, the consequences often fall heavily on the shoulders of the general public. We have seen examples globally where protests have spiraled out of control, leading to extensive loss of life and property damage, such as the violent protests in Kenya and the recent unrest in Bangladesh and Pakistan.

4. It is likely that many government officials may not even be in Nigeria during the protests. They may travel abroad to avoid any potential physical confrontations, leaving the average citizen vulnerable. The distance of these officials means that the immediate impact of any violence or destruction will be borne primarily by us, the ordinary Nigerians.

5. The government has acknowledged the challenges and is implementing policies to address them. President Bola Tinubu has requested more time for these programs to take effect. Premature protests might disrupt these efforts and delay potential solutions.

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Suggestions:
1. Continue using social media platforms to raise awareness about the issues in a non-violent manner. Engaging in online campaigns can reach a wide audience and put pressure on the government without risking physical harm. For instance, the NERDC (National Education Research Development Council) was called out on social media concerning their Jibowu office in Lagos. The building looked old, and there was a complaint about why it looked that way. Due to the tweet, they repainted it.

2. If you choose to participate, ensure that the demonstration remains peaceful and non-violent.

Odewale Adesoye (Green Man)