Pulse.ng : PWDs frowns at planned protest against Tinubu

By Sani Idris

Group, Self Reliance for Physically Challenged Traders of Nigeria, has warned against plunging the country into chaos through violent protest.

The group was reacting to the planned protests by youths, against president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration on alledged hardship posed on the country through his new policies and reforms in an open letter issued to newsmen in Kaduna on Sunday on "the negative impacts of youth protest against president Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

The National Chairman and Secretary, Self Reliance for Physically Challenged Traders of Nigeria, Comrade Munnir Shehu, and Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim in the letter said that Nigeria is yet to recover from the scars posed on the nation by the 2021 endSARS protest and as such the government must put up appropriate measures to stop any protest that would lead to the breakdown of laws and order.

The national executives further disclosed that the disability group will try everything possible to mobilize it's members both for self defence and for the integrity of Nigeria, adding that embracing constructive dialogue remains panacea to solve Nigeria's problem and not protest.

“We, the self-reliance for Physically Challenged Traders of Nigeria, are compelled to urgently address the recent calls for youth protests against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We firmly believe that such actions pose a significant and imminent threat to our nation’s stability, unity, and progress, and could potentially plunge our country into chaos, comparable to the destabilization seen in other nations experiencing similar unrest.

“Let it be known that if these protests proceed, we will mobilize massively across the country to defend our rights and the integrity of Nigeria. Protests of this nature are not only unproductive but also dangerously destabilizing.

“They risk plunging our nation into chaos, undermining the very fabric of our society, and inflicting harm on all citizens, especially the physically challenged community who are often the most vulnerable during times of unrest. We do not want to experience the turmoil and violence that occurred during the EndSARS protests, which left deep scars on our nation.

“We implore the youth and all concerned citizens to deeply consider the potential consequences of their actions. The government has taken significant steps to address the pressing issues facing our nation. Among these initiatives are the introduction of student loans, designed to make education more accessible and attainable for all, and the proposed ₦70,000 minimum wage, aimed at improving the standard of living for workers and their families. These measures reflect a genuine commitment to enhancing the welfare of all Nigerians and addressing long-standing economic challenges.

“Furthermore, the Npower program, which has provided valuable employment and training opportunities for countless Nigerians, will continue to be a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to combat unemployment and enhance skills development. All outstanding issues related to the program will be resolved, and the stipends will be increased from ₦30,000 to a higher, more sustainable amount, ensuring that participants receive fair compensation for their contributions.

“In addition to these efforts, we are appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fill the existing ministerial vacancies promptly. Appointing qualified individuals to these crucial positions will enhance the efficiency of the government’s operations and ensure that all sectors are functioning optimally.

“Specifically, we urge the President to appoint Dr. Halimat Tejuosho, the esteemed mother of all persons with disabilities and the vulnerable in Nigeria, without delay. Her appointment would greatly enhance the advocacy and support for the physically challenged community and ensure their interests are represented at the highest level of government.

“Our association also wishes to highlight the particular vulnerability of our members during such protests. Many of us use open spaces to market our small businesses. During protests, our goods and properties can be vandalized. As physically challenged individuals, we cannot easily escape or protect our livelihoods from such violence. The loss of our goods would not only devastate our businesses but also put our families in a dire situation, leading to hunger and further economic hardship. Additionally, in the chaos of a protest, physically challenged individuals are at a higher risk of injury or even death, as they may be unable to quickly move to safety amidst the confusion and wild following.

“Given these serious concerns, we strongly advocate for dialogue over protests. The potential for violence, economic loss, and human tragedy is too great to ignore. Protests under such conditions should not hold, as they endanger lives and threaten the stability of our nation.

“We have unwavering confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is steadfastly dedicated to resolving any outstanding issues that are critical to the nation’s well-being. His administration has consistently demonstrated a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue and take decisive actions toward national development and progress.

“In this context, resorting to deadlock and confrontation through protests is not only counterproductive but perilous. Such actions threaten to derail the positive strides we have made and compromise the potential for further advancements. We advocate for a path of constructive dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful advocacy. It is through these channels that we can achieve substantive progress and ensure the stability, unity, and prosperity of our beloved country.

“We call upon all Nigerians to rise above division and discord, to unite in the spirit of patriotism, and to work collaboratively towards our shared goals of national development and progress. Let Us channel our energies into efforts that will lead to sustainable and positive change for all citizens, fostering an environment where every Nigerian, regardless of physical ability, can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth.

“In conclusion, we urge everyone to reject the path of protest and confrontation and to embrace dialogue, unity, and constructive action. Let us stand together in defence of our nation’s stability and work tirelessly towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all.” the letter reads.