The Perilous Path of Street Protests: Why Nigeria Needs Strategic Political Action, by Muhammad Auwal Yahaya

Tabbas! Street Protests fa is a Double-Edged Sword!
Street protests, while a powerful expression of democratic discontent, often bring more harm than good. As we have seen in Nigeria (#EndSARS) and other African nations like Sudan, what begins as a peaceful demonstration can quickly spiral into violence, causing widespread disruption and suffering.

Street protests frequently start with peaceful intentions but are soon infiltrated by criminal elements and political opportunists. These individuals turn demonstrations into chaotic scenes of theft, r*pe, vandalism, and looting, overshadowing the original cause and inflicting significant harm on communities and economies.

The economic impact of violent protests is profound. Businesses close, daily activities are disrupted, and public infrastructure suffers damage. This instability deters investment and can lead to long-term economic decline. Socially, the trust within communities erodes, fostering an environment of fear and division.

Despite their dramatic nature, street protests often fail to achieve lasting change. The associated violence and disorder alienate potential allies and lead to government crackdowns, rather than constructive dialogue and reform.

Sudan’s recent history underscores the dangers of prolonged street protests. Initial peaceful demonstrations devolved into violent clashes, resulting in significant loss of life, economic collapse, and ongoing political instability. This serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked protests.

Rather than resorting to street protests, Nigerians should leverage democratic processes to hold their government accountable. One powerful tool is the ‘election recall,’ which allows citizens to remove under-performing representatives from office, ensuring that those in power genuinely reflect the people’s interests.

Effective political action requires unity and organization. By forming coalitions and advocacy groups, citizens can present a cohesive and compelling case for change. This unity is essential for negotiating with the government and achieving meaningful policy reforms.

Engaging in constructive dialogue with elected officials and utilizing legal mechanisms to address grievances can lead to more sustainable and impactful outcomes. This approach reduces the risk of violence and promotes a stable environment conducive to progress and development.

While the impulse to protest is understandable, Nigerians must recognize that street demonstrations often lead to unintended and harmful consequences. Instead, the focus should be on leveraging democratic processes to hold elected representatives accountable. By utilizing mechanisms like election recalls, citizens can ensure their voices are heard and their interests protected.

This is not the time for street protests; it is a time for strategic action. By embracing more effective means of advocacy, Nigerians can foster a more stable, prosperous, and just society. The power to create lasting change lies not in the chaos of the streets, but in the strength of a united and determined populace committed to democratic principles.

Muhammad Auwal Yahaya
One of the Digital Sons of Nigeria