Hardship Should Be Resolved Through Ballot, Not Protest – Kwankwaso tells Nigerians

Former Kano State Governor and National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, has urged Nigerians, especially the youth, to use their voting power to address the country’s economic challenges.

Speaking against the backdrop of planned nationwide protests by youths over hunger and hardship, Kwankwaso emphasized patience with the Bola Tinubu administration and called for support to ensure its success.

In a statement on his official X handle on Saturday, Kwankwaso acknowledged the frustration driving the protest calls but advised prioritizing the nation’s stability by giving the government a chance to perform.

“Today, I address you not just as an elder and concerned citizen but as someone who deeply believes in our nation’s potential. The recent calls for protests against poor governance resonate with me, reflecting our collective frustration and desire for a better Nigeria,” he stated.

“However, I urge Nigerians to put our country first by being patient with the government and offering all necessary support for its success. If any government fails to provide the needed leadership for a better Nigeria, we will have the opportunity to elect capable leaders through our votes.”

Kwankwaso highlighted the importance of using the ballot box for change, citing the potential dangers of protests, including violence, property destruction, and societal division.

He attributed the current economic crisis to poor leadership since 2007, noting that the resulting hardship and hunger were avoidable. He called for good governance, respect for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability to steer the country towards economic development and prosperity.

“It is disheartening to see that poor governance has led to anger, hunger, insecurity, and hopelessness among citizens, particularly the youth,” he remarked.

Kwankwaso also pointed to recent political and economic issues, such as federal interference in Kano State chieftaincy matters, the impeachment of Edo State’s Deputy Governor, political crises in Rivers State, sabotage of the Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding the SAMOA agreement, and conflicts within the APC leadership, as contributors to the nation’s turmoil.

He urged the country’s leadership at all levels to address these challenges urgently.