Gombe, Bauchi CSOs Withdraw From Protest, Present Demands To FG

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Gombe State has announced the withdrawal of its participation in the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, 2024.

Addressing journalists at a press conference in Gombe yesterday, spokesman of the coalition, Dr Habeeb Muhammad, cited the lack of clarity in leadership and the potential hijack of the protest as reasons for their decision.

The group however presented a list of demands to the federal government, urging prompt action to address critical issues affecting the nation.

He said the government must ensure the safety and security of citizens, alleviate poverty and promote economic prosperity, and revitalize refineries to increase domestic production.

It demanded the reversal of petrol price to below N300 per liter, review of electricity tariffs and restoration of tertiary institution fees to their previous rates.

The coalition also demands that the government cuts the cost of governance, carefully considers international loans, reduces taxation on citizens by 50%, and implement the new minimum wage of N70,000.

The United Civil Society Organisations in Bauchi also said based on its recognition of the importance of peace, stability and constructive dialogue to achieve collective goals, it decided to shelve its plan of taking part in the nationwide planned protest.

In a press conference, the chief convener, Comrade Aliyu Z. Mukaddas, said they were against the protests