Middle Belt Youth groups have called on residents of the region to abstain from participating in the proposed nationwide protests expected to kick off on August 1st.
The group leaders argued that the protest, though seemingly motivated by genuine economic concerns, is being driven by hidden agendas and individuals with selfish ambitions.
Nasiru Jagaba, one of the group leaders, stated that while the economic situation is indeed dire, the present hardship is an inherited challenge and should not be resolved at the expense of Middlebeltans.
Jagaba warned that the protest could destabilize the region and put innocent lives and property at risk due to the involvement of armed thugs and criminals.
“We, in the Middle Belt, believe these efforts to set the country aflame are not motivated by altruism but by selfish ambition. We urge all Middlebeltans to stay calm and stay away from this planned protest that will destabilize our peace,” Jagaba said in a statement.
The leaders acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to address the economic damage caused by previous administrations and urged him to continue working towards equitable solutions for all Nigerians, particularly those in the Middle Belt.
They called on the President to cut back on expenditures for public office holders in line with the country’s economic realities and to consider headhunting more effective team members if necessary.
They also stressed their commitment to exploring better approaches to communicating their thoughts on the current economic setbacks and assured their support for President Tinubu’s recovery efforts for Nigeria.
They urged the government to develop sustainable ideas to improve living conditions for all Nigerians and called on citizens to avoid being misled by those with ulterior motives.
The statement was signed by Nasiru Jagaba and various national youth group leaders representing ethnic groups across the Middle Belt, including Igala, Idoma, Ebira, Tiv, Chukun, Berom, Amo, Atyap, Gbagi, Zuru, Zaar, Eggon, Alago, Baju, Jukun, Ngas, Nupe, Chamba, Chawai, and many others.
