In a significant development, the Coalition of Civil Society groups, ethnic associations, and pressure groups in Plateau State has decided not to participate in the planned national protests set for August 1st.
Speaking to journalists in Jos on Tuesday July 30, the Convener, Comrade Prince Miaphen, explained that the decision was made after representatives of various groups met between July 27 and July 29, 2024, to assess the current national situation. “Following the brewing national tension due to threats of protests by various masked interests, we decided to take an informed stand in the best interest of the country,” he stated.
Miaphen acknowledged the widespread consensus that Nigeria’s economy has been on a troubling path with severe socioeconomic consequences. He remarked, “It appeared that successive governments, especially in recent years, have only designed ways to survive and pass the buck to the next.”
Despite criticisms, Miaphen praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing daring economic reforms, notably the removal of petroleum subsidies and changes to foreign exchange policies. He noted that while these reforms are controversial and opinions vary, they are necessary to correct long-standing economic stagnation.
Miaphen concluded by condemning the actions of certain cartels that he accused of promoting dangerous narratives to incite unrest. “These cartels have not relented in sponsoring very dangerous narratives and inciting,” he warned.
