Elite Youths of Anam Foundation (EYAF), a foremost non-profit and apolitical community based organization has urged Nigerian youths to see the planned nationwide protest as avenue for positive change in Nigeria rather than unleash mayhem and lawlessness.
The group formed by patriotic citizens of Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State also advised the youths to seize the opportunity of the protest to close the ethnic and religious divide in the country.
In a statement jointly signed by its President and National Publicity Secretary, Mr Chris Anekwe and Olisemeka Obeche, respectively, EYAF expressed dissatisfaction over the socio-economic development challenges faced by youths and residents of Anam, Anambra West, Anambra and Nigerians in general.
It called on government at all levels to come down from high horse and engage the youths in constructive dialogue targeted at finding solution to the plethora of problems facing the country and working towards steady turn-around.
The statement partly reads: “Board of Trustees and Executive Committee of Elite Youths of Anam Foundation (EYAF) believe that Nigerian youths have legitimate concerns that government at the federal, state and local levels should urgently look into. They should act fast to address the underlying issues fueling agitations and street protest around the country.
“For us in Anam and Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State, the future is increasingly looking bleak with standard of education now at its lowest ebb. This creates an increasing army of poorly or uneducated youths who see internet fraud as the best and easier route to wealth and power in society.
“But, much as we have found ourselves at a crossroad to nowhere, we strongly believe that our youths should refrain from acts capable of throwing the country further economic turmoil, social upheaval, mayhem or bloodbath.”
The group further delivered a six-point advice to the youths, urging the planners of the protest and participants to embrace non-violence, avoid attack on public and private property, adhere to legal guidelines, promote constructive dialogue and make safety of lives a priority.
“EYAF feels compelled to urge Nigerian youths, especially, those from the south east and Anam to approach the protest with a high sense of patriotism, civility, peace, respect for rule of law and constructive engagement rather than a brigandage.
“EYAF is calling on Anam, Igbos and by extension, Nigerian youths, both at home, and in Diaspora to:
1. Embrace Non-Violence: We strongly believe that our strength as the backbone of this nation lies in our unity and the peaceful nature of our protest. Violence undermines our cause and jeopardizes the safety of participants and the general public.
Given the fact that the security agencies have declared themselves ready to deal decisively with anyone caught in violent or lawless act during the exercise, it is important that our youths give the authorities no reason to clampdown on them. We therefore, urge all participants in the #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest to maintain calm and avoid any form of confrontation or physical altercations.
2. Respect Public Property and Private Property: We are calling on protesters to adopt civil and respectful mode of protest this time, especially now that the security agents have been placed on high alerts to deal with any form of lawlessness. We therefore appeal to our youths to refrain from venting their anger on public and private property or even human beings.
Acts of vandalism and destruction of property or human lives only serve to alienate us from our cause and weaken our message. Let us uphold the dignity of our movement by treating all property and persons with respect. Let us steer clear of any act capable of sparking off mayhem or bloodshed throughout this protest.
3. Adhere to Legal Guidelines: It is very important that organizers of this protest and Nigerian youths ensure that all activities carried out during this protest comply with laws and did not drag the country further into socio-political quagmire. As Nigerians are still struggling to survive the current economic hardship, anything that worsens rather than ameliorate the conditions is considered anti-progressive. Therefore, EYAF is calling for a protest meets legal compliance to further give legitimacy to our demand for a just, and better nation.
4. Promote Constructive Dialogue: EYAF believe that the goal of organizers of this protest should be to engage in a constructive or productive conversations with the leaders of the country so as to steer the country from the troubled waters. Let us focus on articulating clear, actionable demands and be prepared to engage in constructive discussions with the federal government and other stakeholders on how to change the cause of the country for greater good. I believe that if Nigerian youths go into this protest with respect for differing opinions and approach dialogues with an open mind, victory will be achieved in the end.
5. Make Safety of Lives a Priority: EYAF believe that greater premium should be placed on the safety of all participants, and so urging the organizers to provide logistics for safe areas and medical teams and first aid stations. Citizens are equally urged to be aware of emergency procedures and follow any guidance provided by organizers and authorities to avoid unnecessary loss of lives.
6. Demonstrate Unity and Solidarity, not Religious and Ethnic Division: EYAF believes that uur collective voice as youths of this great nation is powerful. But the only way we can prove that is by showing solidarity with fellow protesters and support each other throughout the process. Unity amplifies our message and demonstrates the strength of our shared commitment to change. Already, we are hearing ethnic sound bites ahead of the protest. Instead of seeing this exercise from an ethnic or religious prism, it’s better we all see it as a Nigerian problem and match in unity to confront it. We must learn from the fall-out of the #EndSARS protest.
“Our purpose is to advocate for positive change in Nigeria through peaceful and constructive means. Let us lead by example, demonstrating that a united and civil approach can achieve meaningful results. Together, we can drive the change we seek and build a better future for all.
“Instead of engaging in violent protest, EYAF is urging its members to take advantage of the various training & empowerment programs offered by the foundation to enhance their skills and well-being. The foundation prioritizes the safety and well-being of its members and urges them to be mindful of their surroundings especially throughout the protest period. We believe that personal development and empowerment are key to driving positive change in our community.”
