Use power of ballot to address hardship, not protest — Kwankwaso

Kwankwaso’s comments come in response to planned nationwide protests by youths focused on hunger and hardship.

In a statement shared on his official X account today, he expressed that while he understands the motivation behind the protests, Nigerians should exercise patience with the Bola Tinubu administration and offer their full support for its success.

“I address you today not only as an elder and concerned citizen but as someone who firmly believes in the potential of our great nation. The recent calls for protests against poor governance resonate with me, reflecting our shared frustration and desire for a better Nigeria.

“However, I encourage Nigerians to prioritize our country above all else by being patient with the government and providing the necessary support for it to succeed.

“If a government fails to deliver the leadership needed for a better Nigeria, we will have the opportunity to elect leaders who can bring about the necessary change through our votes.

“In these challenging times, our nation is at a pivotal moment. Our collective frustration with poor governance has reached a critical point, and the desire to protest is strong.

“As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I empathize with your concerns and your call for change. Nevertheless, I urge you to consider the potential consequences of national protests and to direct your energy toward a more effective and peaceful means of transformation—through the power of your ballot.

“While protests are a fundamental democratic right, they can often lead to unforeseen and serious consequences. The tragic events of the past have demonstrated that protests can escalate into violence, resulting in loss of life, property destruction, and widespread chaos. The effects of such actions can linger, leaving lasting scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us”.

Kwankwaso attributed the current economic crisis to poor leadership, stating that the hardship and hunger affecting the nation were preventable.

“We find ourselves in unnecessary hardship because our leaders have failed to take the right steps since 2007. However, there is always an opportunity for correction and to steer the country back toward economic development, prosperity, and improved welfare for citizens.

“This can be achieved through good governance, respect for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability. It is disheartening to see how the attitude of our leaders towards poor governance has driven citizens, especially the youth, into feelings of anger, hunger, insecurity, hopelessness, and despair regarding the future of our nation.

Kwankwaso highlighted some recent political and economic issues that have contributed to the country’s turmoil.

He pointed out, “Interference by the Federal Government in chieftaincy matters in Kano State, the impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political crises in Rivers State, sabotage of the Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding the SAMOA agreement, conflicts between Senator Ali Ndume and the APC leadership, widespread insecurity, and other criminal activities are just a few examples of avoidable and unnecessary crises.”

He called on leaders at all levels to take decisive action to address the numerous challenges facing the country.