Hardship: Group advocates other options than protest

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

Civil Society Coalition on Security, Peace, and Conflict Resolution has emphasized the importance of effective and strategic advocacy as an alternative to protest.
This is coming as Nigerians are set to embark on planned nationwide protest on August 1st over economic hardship in the country.
At a press conference in Kano on Saturday, National President of the group, Muhammad Musbahu Basirka highlighted the coalition’s initiative to train social media influencers and student activists in advocacy skills.
The goal, according to him, is to leverage social media to influence government policies and demand accountability, rather than resorting to protests that could lead to unrest and instability in the country.
“ We believe that social media,which is often used as a platform for organizing protest ,can also be utilized to influence government policies,decisions and actions.
“Our goal is to encourage strategic advocacy as a viable alternative to protest,which sometimes lead to unrest , instability and anarchy,” he said.
The coalition then called on the government to address current hardships, ensure security and stability, and provide job opportunities for Nigerians.
“ We urge social media influencers and activists to remain focused and committed to maintaining peace and unity in our great nation while demanding accountability and good governance.”