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ADSC boss urges Nigerians to protest peacefully to avoid economic fallout
Victor Walsh Oluwafemi.
Published By: Michael Adesina
The Chief Executive of the Africa Development Studies Centre (ADSC), Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, has called on all citizens to engage in peaceful demonstrations.
He emphasised that while it is crucial to express grievances and demand change, resorting to violence only exacerbates the issues the nation faces.
Citing global examples, he highlights the destructive outcomes of violent protests in France, and Chile, protests as a reminder that violence undermines the legitimacy of protests and often leads to severe repercussions for all involved.
“We must learn from the recent events in Kenya, where protests against rising living costs and economic hardships turned violent, resulting in severe economic disruptions and further strain on the country’s fragile economy,” Oluwafemi stated. “The violence not only led to loss of lives and property but also scared away investors, causing long-term damage to the nation’s economic prospects.”
Oluwafemi acknowledged the frustrations and hardships that many young Nigerians face, particularly with high unemployment rates and limited opportunities. However, he stressed that resorting to violence is not the solution, as it only leads to more suffering and delays the progress sought.
“We understand the deep frustrations felt by our youth,” said Oluwafemi. “But history has shown us that non-violent movements can bring about significant and lasting change. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States and the Indian Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi are prime examples of how peaceful protests can lead to meaningful and transformative outcomes.”
To ensure their message is heard and to bring about the change they desperately need, Oluwafemi urged Nigerians to remain united in their commitment to non-violence. He called on community leaders, activists, and all citizens to advocate for peaceful protests and to discourage any form of violence.
“Let us stand together and show the world that we can demand justice and change without compromising our principles or endangering our communities,” Oluwafemi concluded.
