By KABIRU ABUBAKAR
Yes, it is possible to hold peaceful protests in present-day Nigeria where passions appear to have run wild due to the pervasive socio-economic hardships affecting the general population. In the run-up to the planned #EndBadGovernance national demonstrations aimed at drawing the government’s attention to widespread suffering, there were apprehensions, especially in Establishment circles, that the protests were likely to descend into violence as they could be hijacked by hoodlums for their own selfish goals.
These fears were justified given the history of such events in the country in the past. The #EndSARS riots of 2021 readily come to mind, where hundreds of Nigerians were killed and property of unestimated value was destroyed. Also, the recent Kenya riots against the introduction of unpopular taxes offer enough reason for these fears on the part of the government.
Thus, governments at both the national and sub-national levels in Nigeria were understandably worried, despite repeated assurances by organizers, that the August 1 protests, billed to last 10 days, would be peaceful.
As things have turned out in some states, fears that the demonstrations would snowball into the destruction of lives and property have come true. How unfortunate.
Nevertheless, there was an extraordinary exception in Plateau State on that fateful August 1. What happened in Jos, the Plateau State capital, was even more poignant considering that in the last decades, the state had become known for various kinds of violence, ranging from herdsmen’s attacks to terrorism and kidnapping for ransom.
But on this occasion, Plateau people surprised the world as the protests recorded no single instance of violence or related disturbances, unlike in Kaduna, Kano, Borno, Gombe, and other parts of the country.
Not only were the protesters very orderly and mature, but the entire atmosphere also belied the tensions, anger, and despondency that should ordinarily be the case, considering the hunger and despondency all over the country. The protests were carnival-like as the protesters sang songs to the accompaniment of music and put across their message to the government in a civil and mature manner.
To further demonstrate the religious diversity and unity of the protesters, an issue that has divided the state in the past, Christians protected Muslims as they said their prayers on the sidelines of the protests.
Indeed, this is a Plateau spirit that has not been seen in recent times. Analysts say this may be a new beginning of peaceful co-existence in a state that has been riven by religious and ethnic conflict in recent years.
This new attitude can be attributed to the Governor Mutfwang administration’s spirited efforts in the last year to unite the diverse peoples of the state. Some watchers of the Plateau situation say that citizens were averse to resorting to violence because they did not want to destroy the infrastructural development the government has achieved in its short time in office.
Furthermore, community leaders and civil society organizations in Plateau State played a significant role in ensuring the protests remained peaceful. They engaged with the youth, educating them on the importance of peaceful demonstrations and the long-term benefits of non-violent protest.
This proactive approach helped in maintaining calm and order, showcasing that with the right guidance and leadership, protests can be conducted without descending into chaos.
The police and other security agencies in Plateau State also deserve commendation for their professional conduct. Instead of responding with force, they facilitated the peaceful assembly, ensuring the safety of the protesters while respecting their right to express their grievances.
This collaboration between the protesters and security forces was crucial in setting Plateau State apart from other regions where violence erupted.
Also, the media in Plateau State played a crucial role in promoting peace. Local radio and television stations, along with social media influencers, continuously broadcast messages of peace and unity. They highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue and the need to avoid violence, reinforcing the collective desire for peaceful change.
Overall, the state has continued to receive accolades from all over the country for being a shining example of the fact that peaceful protests are possible.
No doubt, Plateau State has become a shining role model for other states in this respect.
As the protests continue, it is essential for other states to draw lessons from Plateau’s experience. By fostering unity, engaging community leaders, and ensuring the professionalism of security forces, the likelihood of violence can be minimized. Plateau State’s success serves as a testament to the power of peaceful protest and the possibility of constructive change through non-violent means.
It is expected that in the days ahead, as the protests continue, the state will maintain this enviable record for the benefit of its long-suffering citizens and the nation as a whole.
The Plateau experience underscores the potential for peaceful protest to effect meaningful change without resorting to violence, serving as a beacon of hope for the entire country.
Abubakar writes from Ungwan Rogo, Jos