Sen. Rabi’u Kwankwaso has urged Nigerians to seek political change through voting rather than protests. In response to planned nationwide strikes, the former presidential candidate and Kano Governor emphasized that ballot-based democratic processes are more effective and less destructive than protests, which often lead to violence and chaos.
In a recent statement, Sen. Rabi’u Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and former Kano State Governor advised Nigerians to seek change through democratic means rather than protests. His remarks come in response to the planned nationwide strike starting August 1, which has stirred significant public discourse.
Kwankwaso acknowledged the deep frustration felt by many Nigerians due to ongoing economic hardships, which he attributed to leadership failures since 2007. Despite recognizing the importance of protests as a democratic right, he cautioned against their potential to devolve into violence and chaos, which could result in loss of lives and property damage. He emphasized that while protests reflect public discontent, they often lead to negative consequences that extend beyond immediate grievances.
The former Defence Minister urged citizens to leverage their voting power as a more constructive and peaceful tool for effecting change. He highlighted that the ballot box provides a legitimate and effective avenue for addressing governance issues and promoting economic development. Kwankwaso called on Nigerian leaders to focus on good governance and adherence to the rule of law to alleviate the country’s challenges.
His call for peaceful democratic engagement over potentially destructive protests resonates with a broader desire for effective reform without exacerbating existing tensions. Kwankwaso's appeal reflects a commitment to building a better Nigeria through constructive political processes rather than disruptive actions.