Ex-militants from the Akwa Ibom Ex-Agitators Forum have urged Akwa Ibom State’s youths against participating in what they call a faceless protest.
They promised to gather anti-protesters in key locations to defend public infrastructure and property from vandalism and looting during the protest.
Alban Paulinus, Chairman of the Forum, announced this to journalists on Wednesday evening in Uyo, the state capital. He described the protest as futile and a threat to the state’s current tranquilly.
He stated, “We’re here to inform the world that we reject faceless demonstrations. We, the Akwa Ibom Ex-Agitators Forum, believe that Akwa Ibom State is a very peaceful state, and we would not allow any faceless group to disrupt the calm climate we are experiencing here.
“If there is a need to protest, Akwa Ibom residents should do so. We will not protest because our brother, the number three citizen, the Senate President, is present, and we say not now.
“We shall go about our normal business and ask all Akwa Ibom residents not to be intimidated by any faceless demonstration. Carry on with your daily routine.
“At this vital juncture, staging a protest could be ineffective and endanger public safety. Instead, we urge the government to address the grave issue of hunger and improve the living conditions of our countrymen.”
He went on to say that they are committed to keeping the state peaceful and stable. While noting Nigeria’s economic issues, he emphasised the importance of conversation and engagement with the government in finding long-term solutions.
He stated, “By encouraging our youth to avoid the scheduled rallies, we hope to prevent potential bloodshed and promote a more peaceful approach to tackling our country’s economic problems.
“As ex-agitators in the struggle to construct our own Niger Delta, we strongly advise that no one, under the cover of protest, should attack, loot, or steal. Looting must be denounced. Our members have already mobilised across the state to preserve our infrastructure.
“Our public institutions are owned by all Akwa Ibomites and were developed using our money. As a result, no one should target any office, public institution, or government infrastructure. Members of our forum are dispatched throughout the state to defend our public utilities till the last drop of blood.”
Paulinus appealed to the people to give President Bola Tinubu a chance.
According to him, one year is insufficient to develop a nation. He urged patience and promised to follow the situation as it unfolded.
The group’s Secretary, Johnson Solomon, stated, “When we were shouting about marginalisation, no one listened to us. Now you want us to collaborate to carry out protests?” We say no. We in the Niger Delta are mobilising in large numbers to oppose the faceless organisation.”
Emmanuel Essang, Chairman of Obollo Youths, stated that the days of marching to the streets are passed since demands can now be met through conversation.