The Conference of Civil Societies and Centre for Civil-Military Cooperation has called on citizens to embrace dialogue and shun violence. In a press conference held today in Abuja, Adams Otakwu, Chairperson of the Conference of Civil Societies and Coordinator of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO), called on Nigerians to remain calm and avoid violence as tensions mount ahead of planned protests. He reflected on the August 1, 2024 protests, which were hijacked by thugs and resulted in tragic losses.
Otakwu stressed that allowing protests to escalate could lead Nigeria down a dangerous path, as seen in countries like Afghanistan, Syria, Sudan, and Congo. “We cannot afford to let violence consume our nation. The devastating effects of conflict are clear, and we must learn from the mistakes of other nations,” he said.
Mr. Joseph Odeh, Executive Director of Leadwatch, echoed Otakwu’s call for caution, urging Nigerians to engage in dialogue rather than protests. “We must embrace dialogue to resolve our differences. Protests can easily become violent, and that is something we cannot afford right now,” Odeh said.
In his remarks, Mr. David Acheme, Executive Director of Community Initiative for Transparency, emphasized the need for peaceful conflict resolution. “Violence only exacerbates our problems. Dialogue is the key to ensuring a better future for all Nigerians,” Acheme stated.
Madam Walter Elisabeth, President of Global Safe Haven Organisation, concluded the event by stressing the importance of unity. “Now more than ever, we need to stand together in peace. Violence will only tear us apart,” she urged.
The press conference ended with a unified call for peace and restraint, as all the speakers urged Nigerians to prioritize dialogue, national unity, and security in these challenging times.