The people of Plateau State joined their counterparts across the country to protest bad governance and the crippling economic hardship that has left many in dire straits.
The youths insisted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reverses the removal of fuel subsidy, which they claim has exacerbated the economic hardship.
The protest, which started peacefully, took a violent turn on the third day when some miscreants attempted to hijack the demonstration in Jos, the state capital.
However, Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s quick thinking and calm approach saved the day, as he addressed the protesters and appealed for calm.
Mutfwang in a state broadcast commended the youths for their cooperation and called for restraint, urging them to avoid violence and destruction.
The governor’s message was a turning point in the protest, as it calmed the nerves of the protesters and prevented further escalation.
Despite the attempted hijack, the protest remained largely peaceful, thanks to the governor’s intervention.
Mutfwang also engaged stakeholders in finding ways to review the 24-hour curfew imposed on Jos and Bukuru metropolis.
The curfew was necessary to prevent the breakdown of law and order, but the governor was keen to lift it as soon as possible.
The governor imposed a 24-hour curfew on Jos/Bukuru Metropolis, effective from 12 midnight on Sunday, August 4, 2024 and later reviewed it to 18 hours. This was in a decisive move to enhance security of lives and maintain public order.
In consultation with state security agencies, he took this decision after reviewing the actions of unscrupulous individuals who exploited the nationwide protest to unleash terror on innocent citizens.
The governor noted that these criminal elements, armed with daggers, machetes, and other dangerous weapons, broke into shops and restaurants along Bauchi Road and Zololo Junction, looting foodstuffs and other valuable items.
Governor Mutfwang emphasised that the curfew was in the best interest of all citizens and urged everyone to comply fully to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. He directed security agencies in the state to ensure the total enforcement of the curfew across Jos/Bukuru Metropolis.
He warned those planning to unleash further terror on innocent citizens to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law. The governor also called on the relevant security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in their duties to prevent any potential disruptions to law and order.
In a statement signed by Gyang Bere, his Director of Press and Public Affairs, made available to Journalists Sunday night in Jos, governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the citizens of Plateau State, particularly the clergy and imams, for their unwavering support of government’s policies and programmes.
He acknowledged their cooperation and adherence to directives during the planned nationwide protest and praised their commitment to maintaining peace and unity.
“The peaceful conduct of our people before, during, and after the nationwide protest is commendable. I urge everyone to continue to uphold this culture of peace as we work together to build a united and progressive Plateau,” Governor Mutfwang added.
Mutfwang emphasised the need for peace and stability in the state, stressing that the curfew was a temporary measure.
The governor also acknowledged the grievances of the protesters and assured them that their voices had been heard.
Again, in a state broadcast, Mutfwang expressed his gratitude to the citizens of the state, particularly the youth, for their peaceful conduct during the national protests against bad governance. The governor acknowledged the citizens’ understanding and dignified behavior.
The governor appealed to the youth to suspend further protests, allowing for dialogue with their leaders to enhance the government’s plans for poverty alleviation.
He assured the citizens that his administration is committed to addressing their concerns and working towards a prosperous Plateau.
Mutfwang highlighted his administration’s efforts to address poverty and insecurity in the state.
“These include investments in agriculture, public transportation, health, and education, as well as the empowerment of citizens through the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA).”
The governor explained that the curfew imposed on Jos-Bukuru metropolis was a proactive measure to prevent criminality and maintain peace.
He noted that the lawful protests had been infiltrated by criminals, leading to looting and attacks on innocent citizens.
“My dear brothers and sisters, the more we continue with the protests, the more the likelihood of being hijacked by sponsored criminals and hoodlums like we began to notice from Sunday evening. Based on the intelligence at our disposal, we know the lawful protests have been infiltrated by criminals who were waiting for an opportunity to loot shops, attack and rob innocent citizens of their hard-earned belongings.
“We even saw the display of foreign flags by some of these criminally minded intruders. So as a responsible government, we had to take proactive steps to prevent further acts of criminality; thus, the 24-hour curfew we imposed on Jos-Bukuru metropolis starting from Sunday midnight.”
Mutfwang expressed his gratitude to traditional, community, and religious leaders, as well as civil society organisations, for their efforts in assuaging the anger and frustrations of the protesters and urged them to continue working towards restoring normalcy.
The #Endbadgovernance protest in Plateau State was a testament to the power of the people and their determination to demand a better life.
Mutfwang’s calm approach and engagement with stakeholders helped to diffuse the tension and prevent further violence.
As the situation returns to normal, the people of Plateau State are hopeful that their grievances will be addressed.
Read also: Mutfwang says protests infiltrated by criminals, asks youths to go home
The governor has promised to work towards finding solutions to the economic challenges facing the state.
The #Endbadgovernance protest has brought to the fore the urgent need for good governance and accountability in Nigeria.
The people of Plateau and their counterparts in other states are demanding an end to the economic hardship and are calling on the federal government to take concrete steps to address their grievances.
Mutfwang’s leadership during the protest has been commended by many, who see him as a beacon of hope for the state.
As the dust settles, the people are looking forward to a brighter future, free from economic hardship and bad governance.
The #Endbadgovernance protest will go down in history as a defining moment in the struggle for good governance in Nigeria.
Governor Mutfwang’s calm approach may have saved the day, but the real work of addressing the grievances of the people has just begun.
Only time will tell if the government at all levels will heed the call of the people and bring an end to bad governance in Nigeria.
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