Aminu Mu’azu Maifata, National President of the National Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), has expressed concerns that a proposed hunger protest could lead Nigeria into troubling times.
Speaking on Friday in Abuja, Maifata, who is also the Chairman of Lafia Local Government Area in Nasarawa State, acknowledged that while protesting is a constitutional right, he advocates for peace and dialogue as the preferred means to address national issues.
Maifata highlighted that past instances of violent protests have resulted in significant economic damage. He urged Nigerians to reject such demonstrations in favor of supporting ongoing government efforts aimed at improving the situation through various palliative measures.
“The right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed, but history shows that violent protests can harm the economy,” Maifata stated.
“Therefore, I urge Nigerians to forgo the planned protest and instead back the current government’s social investment programs, which are being rolled out to address citizens’ needs.”
The ALGON President emphasized that local government chairmen are actively working with the federal government to implement programs designed to provide relief to communities. These initiatives, he noted, offer both immediate and long-term benefits and are already being put into action at the local level.
Maifata called on citizens to engage constructively in the nation’s development efforts rather than participating in protests, which he believes would only hinder progress and lead to setbacks.
