Process Reforms, Not Protest Needed in Nigeria, Says CSO

Civil Society Organization on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) has urged Nigerians to embrace reforms, and not commotion protests, in addressing the country’s current challenges.CSCHEI emphasised that the nation’s economic stability is too fragile to withstand prolonged strikes or public protests.

Director general of CSCHEI, Kunle Yusuff, in a statement warned that such actions could lead to social anarchy, given the current economic climate.

“We appeal to leadership of CSOs, CBOs, NGOs, youths, students and all other critical stakeholders to embrace negotiations and give the government more chance for most of their interventions to mature,” a spokesperson for CSCHEI quoted him as saying.

While advocating for patience, CSCHEI also called on the federal government to accelerate its reform processes.

The organisation outlined several key areas requiring urgent attention, including declaring an emergency in basic healthcare and agriculture, reviewing housing and retirement policies, improving electricity supply and energy sufficiency, enhancing inter-agency communication and coordination.

CSCHEI stressed that these reforms are crucial for Nigerians to begin enjoying the dividends of democracy quickly.

The organisation has taken steps by setting up a committee for public enlightenment and advocacy against extremism and radicalisation.

It announced plans to engage at least 20 civil society organisations in each state capital to promote emotional intelligence and moderate public sensibilities during this challenging period.

The NGO also called on state governors and local government authorities to provide accurate information about federal interventions, emphasising the importance of appropriate dissemination of information at this critical time.

CSCHEI reminded all Nigerians that national development is a collective responsibility, calling for patriotism at all levels of leadership – both community and religious.