The Coalition of Northern Groups, CNG, in Zamfara State, has appealed to stakeholders to remain vigilant against the infiltration of foreign actors as the nationwide protest persists.
The group lamented that the nationwide protest, which started as a peaceful protest, has tragically degenerated into violence, especially in Kano and Jigawa states.
According to a statement issued by the Zamfara State coordinator of the group, Hassan Hussein, CNG has been monitoring developments across the 19 states of northern Nigeria.
“Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) allows citizens to peacefully protest and demand accountability, transparency, and good governance.
“In the last few days, what began as a peaceful protest in northern states has tragically degenerated into violence, particularly in Kano, Kaduna, and Jigawa states, among others.
“Public and private properties were destroyed; shops and stores were looted; hundreds of protesters and security personnel sustained various injuries; and many people lost their lives.
“In Zamfara State, the last three days of the protest were peaceful, devoid of harassment and maltreatment of protesters by security agents deployed to ensure their safety and prevent the infiltration of criminal elements.
“We observed young men and women’s procession through the various routes of the state’s capital, escorted by the security agents.
“However, on Monday, August 5, 2024, the protest took on a different dimension. We noticed the infiltration of criminal elements who manipulated the protesters (mostly underage) and triggered violence.
“The criminal elements succeeded in hijacking the peaceful protest and subsequently making it violent.
“Subsequently, many protesters sustained serious injuries; public and private properties were destroyed; businesses, public offices, and schools were shut down. This dire situation makes this moment critical in the history of Zamfara State.
“As tensions rise between the protesters and security agents and hoodlums that hijacked the peaceful protest for personnel gains, CNG feels that it is essential to issue this press statement, clarify issues as they unfold, and call for calm and restraint.”
The statement added that Zamfara State has long been a beacon of resilience amidst adversity, and if the current violent protest persists, it may threaten the fragile peace in the state and trigger another cycle of insecurity.
“In light of this, we urgently appeal to all parties involved to exercise restraint and engage in peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement to air their grievances.
“Our collective response to this situation will determine not only the immediate resolution but also the long-term stability and unity of our dear state.
“In the light of Monday’s events in Zamfara State, where a peaceful protest has regrettably turned violent, and given the fragile state of peace in the state, it is crucial that we prioritise dialogue and non-violence to achieve the peace and security that our dear state’s desire.
“The CNG has noticed that some of the protesters in Zamfara State were flying foreign flags, chanting anti-democratic songs, and calling on President Putin of Russia and the military to intervene in Nigeria’s governance.
“The infiltration of foreign agents and governments into Nigeria’s affairs could undermine the genuine grievances of the protesters and distort the objectives of the protests.”
“The CNG appeals to all stakeholders to remain vigilant against the infiltration of foreign actors and ensure that the protests reflect the genuine will of our people and are conducted within the framework of the law,” the group added.
Protest: Be wary of foreign actors – Zamfara coalition warns govt, residents