The escalating unrest in Kaduna, which has prompted the state government to declare a state of emergency in affected areas, has drawn sharp criticism and concern from prominent Nigerian figures. Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Minister and vocal commentator, has issued a stark warning about the underlying motives driving the protests, suggesting a far-reaching agenda beyond the immediate grievances of hunger and poor governance.
In his recent Facebook post, Fani-Kayode underscored that the protests, which initially seemed to focus on economic difficulties and government policies, have now taken on a more disturbing dimension. He pointed to the troubling sight of foreign flags being waved by some protesters and the alarming calls for a coup as clear indications of a potential international dimension to the crisis. According to Fani-Kayode, this shift signals that the protests have evolved into an attempt to orchestrate regime change, driven by faceless sponsors with a sinister agenda.
“The ultimate objective of the protestors and their hidden backers is not just to voice dissatisfaction but to incite widespread chaos, dismantle the current democratic system, and replace the legitimately elected officials,” Fani-Kayode wrote. He warned that the disruptions are designed to undermine Nigeria’s democratic process, suggesting that the protests are no longer merely about addressing economic grievances but are instead aimed at destabilizing the country.
Fani-Kayode praised Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for his efforts to mitigate the violence and restore order in the face of the ongoing anarchy. He commended the governor's timely intervention but stressed that the Federal Government must also act decisively to prevent the crisis from spiraling further out of control.
“There have been enough appeals to those engaging in violence and vandalism. It is time to stop treating such criminal elements with leniency,” Fani-Kayode asserted. He emphasized the need for robust support for security agencies, urging the federal authorities to empower them to effectively manage the situation and restore peace before the conflict results in further loss of life.
Fani-Kayode acknowledged the substantial challenges and hardships currently faced by Nigerians but cautioned against allowing extremist and anti-democratic forces to dictate the course of the nation. He expressed concern that the ongoing crisis could push Nigeria towards a scenario similar to Bangladesh's military coups or Sudan's civil war, if left unchecked.
The call to action by Fani-Kayode highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response to the crisis in Kaduna, as the state grapples with the complex interplay of local and international factors fueling the unrest.
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