Nigeria’s former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has called for restraint as the protests against the operatives of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) continued to spread across the country.
Jonathan, on his verified personal twitter handle @GEJonathan, advised that no Nigerian life should be lost during the protests.
He twitted: “I implore everyone to exercise restraint as we walk through these challenging times.
“No Nigerian blood needs to be spilt or life lost during a peaceful protest that seeks to advance our country.
“We may hold different views on national issues, but there is no doubt that most people desire the same thing for Nigeria: a place where we can all live out the full potential of our God-given abilities.”
Meanwhile, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Anglican Communion, Right Rev. Humphrey Olumakaiye, has said the anti-SARS protest is a genuine agitation.
He stated that the disbandment of SARS by the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, was a welcome development.
The clergy, however, cautioned that the promised reforms must be genuine and not cosmetic.
He said, “With the recent uproar in our nation in fact across the globe, on social media and on our roads about the EndSARS agitation; the Church of God is not putting her head in the sand expecting issues to redress itself.
“This is a genuine agitation and it is borne out of deep concern for the future of this nation.
“It delights us to see that the government in a time like this has given prominence to the voice of the citizens, thus making the Police authorities put an end to the unit.
“We now ask that this decision should not be a statement written on paper and made by mouth alone. The sincerity of purpose should guide them to follow through on their proposals to consult stakeholders and enact the much-needed reforms of the entire Police Force.
“We appreciate our youths for exhibiting unparalleled interest towards the betterment of this nation and not losing hope in the bright future we all long for. You have really shown that together we can make the difference we desire and bring the Nigeria of our dreams to reality.”
The bishop, however, appealed to youths not to allow themselves to be used as weapons by enemies of the progress of Nigeria, who he identified. as those who do not encourage and reinforce positive values that can bring about a Nigeria that all Nigerians will be proud of.
Olumakaiye said, “Now we can boldly say that we are tilting towards a Nigeria where a child of nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody. A society built on merit and ingenuity. A society where moral values count. A society where the sanctity of life is held in the highest esteem by the government, security personnel and fellow citizen. A society where one tribe will not be at the mercy of another. A society where politics will not be money-driven.
“I charge all our youths to avoid mob mentality, seek redress without subscribing to violence and so that we shall all live to see the Nigeria of our dream.”
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