Maiduguri Protest: A Patriotic and Clarion Call for Peace and Stability

By Christopher Godwin Akaba

Yesterday’s protest in Maiduguri saw a notable presence of minors, primarily almajiris aged 9-15, who obstructed the Maiduguri-Kano road and vandalized public property. For a long time, these almajiris have frustrated car owners in the state, with motorists often swarmed by them begging for alms. Consequently, the Borno State Arabic and Sangaya Education Board must take immediate action to address this issue, as part of its core mandate is to end street begging and protect Almajiri schoolchildren from abuse.

In contrast to the chaos, Governor Babagana Zulum has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the welfare of Borno State citizens, surpassing many other state governments. He has diligently distributed federal government-provided palliatives across the 27 local governments, ensuring transparency and accountability. Additionally, his initiatives in the transportation sector, such as subsidized fares and solar-powered taxis, have greatly benefited citizens, cushioning the effect of fuel subsidy removal.

The protest does not accurately represent the sentiments of the Borno State people, who are peace-loving. While hunger and hardship are widespread across Nigeria and other parts of the world – as the inflation crisis is globally, Governor Zulum’s efforts deserve recognition and commendation from all well-meaning citizens of the state. His dedication to the people’s welfare is evident, and he should be appreciated for his tireless work.

I felt the pain of those who hurriedly locked up their shops and businesses to comply with the curfew imposed by the state government. The curfew is not meant to inconvenience the public but a proactive step by the state government to prevent the exploitation of unsuspecting minors by terrorist elements seeking to capitalize on the situation. These extremists are waiting nearby, trying to seize the opportunity to launch an attack, as evident from the recent bomb blast in Kawuri, Konduga Local Government Area, which tragically claimed the lives of 18 people on the eve of the protest. This is even as the Borno Police Command had alleged that Boko Haram elements infiltrated the Thursday protest along Baga Road in Maiduguri, killing four persons, while 34 others sustained various degrees of injuries. By imposing the curfew, the government aims to maintain control and prevent the situation from escalating into chaos. Maiduguri cannot afford to fall into the hands of terrorists again.

I urge all citizens to reject the protest being instigated by forces opposed to democracy. I am confident that the federal government has heard the youth’s concerns and our responsive President will take steps to address some of them in the best national interest, just as he has done before. Let us not forget the devastating experiences Maiduguri faced during the Boko Haram insurgency over the past decade. We know firsthand the horrors of war and chaos; let us work towards peace and stability.

Maiduguri Protest: A Patriotic and Clarion Call for Peace and Stability