August 1: We’re Not Joining Protest, Bauchi Govt Declares

July 26, 2024

The Bauchi State government has firmly declared that no protests will be allowed within its jurisdiction.

This is as the government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and order in the state.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Government House on Thursday, July 25, the Secretary to the Government of the state (SSG), Ibrahim Kashim, stated that the government would not stand by and allow any protests to occur in the state.

According to Kashim, the Bauchi State government was neither aware of nor supportive of any plans to hold protests in the state.

He warned those planning to protest in Bauchi to reconsider their intentions.

Kashim said that the government would not tolerate any actions that could lead to breakdown of law and order.

He also dismissed rumours suggesting that Primary Health Care Centers would be closed to prevent vandalism by protesters.

The government scribe clarified that the information circulating about the closure of primary health care centres on the day of the planned protest was false.

Kashim stated further that the state government had no knowledge of or have any involvement in such a decision, adding that the claims were being investigated.

The SSG assured that all primary health care centres and public institutions in the state would remain open, despite the rumours of the planned nationwide protest.

In another development, the North-East Youths Ambassador has described the planned nationwide protest as an attempt to destabilise Nigeria.

The group said the planned protest was orchestrated by those who did not support the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group noted that the aim was to distract the federal government from the remarkable development work it had already accomplished.

Represented by Comrade Haruna Usman, the group in a statement made available to journalists in Bauchi appealed to the planners and other Nigerian youths to shelve the plan and embrace dialogue and roundtable discussions to sort the issues.

The group said: “We urge all youths in the North East to halt their plans for the protest. Our subregion is renowned for our love of peace and respect for our leaders and elders.

“We encourage the youths to pray to Almighty Allah and trust in His guidance instead.

“This government has achieved significant progress, and we must support its efforts rather than hinder them. Therefore, on behalf of the North East Ambassadors, we call on all Nigerian youth to cease any plans for protests. This movement is nothing more than an attempt to destabilise our country.

“For the betterment of Nigeria, we must stand together, support our government, and continue to pursue peace and progress.”