Daud Olatunji
The Coalition for Transparency and Economic Reforms (COTER), representing 259 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), has announced its firm opposition to the planned nationwide protests by the group #EndBadGovernance.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that these protests, scheduled from August 1st to 15th, aim to challenge the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
In a press conference held in Lagos, COTER’s leadership, including National Coordinator Adeshina Animashaun and Comrade Akintunde Adedeji, warned the organisers to reconsider their plans.
They compared the proposed protests to the #EndSARS demonstrations of October 2020, which resulted in significant turmoil across Nigeria.
COTER accused certain disgruntled politicians of orchestrating the planned protests due to their dissatisfaction with the current administration.
The coalition emphasised the potential for these protests to disrupt national peace, drawing parallels to the violent aftermath of the #EndSARS movement.
“The utterances of the organisers of #EndBadGovernance have the potential to ignite violence and chaos throughout the country, reminiscent of the October 2020 riots,” COTER stated.
They urged security agencies to act swiftly to prevent the protests from escalating into nationwide mayhem.
In response, COTER announced the #ProtectNigeriaRally, set to coincide with the dates of the proposed protests.
They vowed to confront violent protesters and support law enforcement efforts to maintain order.
“We will protect Nigeria, Nigerians, and businesses. In the streets, markets, and public spaces, we will be on the ground to maintain order,” the coalition declared.
COTER also called on the Federal Government and security agencies to deploy intelligence strategies and measures to thwart the protests, describing them as another potential #EndSARS disaster.
COTER urged Nigerian youths not to be deceived by the organisers of #EndBadGovernance, cautioning them against becoming “cannon fodder” in any confrontation with security agencies.
They appealed to parents and guardians to advise their children against participating in the proposed protests to avoid becoming collateral damage.
“Let us prioritize the survival of our dear country, Nigeria,” COTER stressed, highlighting the importance of maintaining peace and stability for national progress.
While acknowledging the challenges facing the nation, COTER commended the Tinubu administration’s efforts in implementing socio-economic reforms.
They called on the government to address pressing issues and ensure that the voices of the people are heard and acted upon.
COTER noted the administration’s progress, such as the Supreme Court ruling granting autonomy to local governments and the commitment to reviewing the national minimum wage.
They urged the government to continue its proactive measures in tackling security challenges and improving the socio-economic conditions of Nigerians.
Reflecting on the aftermath of the October 2020 #EndSARS protests, COTER highlighted the substantial losses incurred, including over N1.5 trillion in economic damages and significant insurance payouts.
They warned against a repeat of such destructive events, stressing the need for patriotic and peaceful actions
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