#October1st: Group cautions Kano youths to shun violence

The Kano Peace Committee, on Tuesday, cautioned Kano youths against participating in the October 1 protest, citing concerns of violence that may lead to the destruction of public and private properties.

The group’s warning came as Nigeria marks its 64th Independence anniversary, emphasising the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence.

KPC’s  Convener/Head of Secretariat, Ibrahim Waiya, in a press statement made available to the Punch in Kano, alleged that a sponsored campaign was circulating to mobilize Kano youths to continue the “End bad Governance” protest.

Waiya described the campaign as “misleading, unpatriotic, and ill-timed,” highlighting the devastating consequences of the previous national protest from August 1-10, 2024.

“Kano State experienced one of its worst nightmares, with billions of naira in damages and loss of lives,” Waiya said. “The protest caused significant economic, social, and commercial setbacks and rubbished our reputation and integrity, respect, and honour among others”, Waiya lamented.

Waiya reminded youths that many participants in the previous protest are still languishing in jail, abandoned by those, who instigated the violence.

He said, “We urge youths to use their brains and think critically, avoiding manipulation by selfish politicians.

“It’s time to emancipate ourselves from political manipulation and rediscover ourselves, as honourable human beings, equal to all others.”

The KPC appreciated the security agencies’ efforts in safeguarding the state and urged them to continue working professionally within the ambits of the law.

“It’s time to join hands to salvage our dear state and country from evil plans that threaten peace, security, and peaceful co-existence. We must protect and preserve Kano State’s integrity, honour, and respect”, Waiya emphasised.