By CSN Media
The Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have issued a communique highlighting the role of protests as a last resort for citizens who have been ignored by those in power. The bishops, who met at the Domus Pacis Pastoral Institute in Akure, Ondo State, emphasized that protests are a legitimate means for citizens to express their grievances when all other avenues have been exhausted.
According to the communique, protests are not meant to provide solutions to problems but rather to draw attention to the issues that have been neglected by those in authority. The bishops noted that the current protests in Nigeria are a result of the government’s failure to respond to the cries of the people, who are suffering from hunger, insecurity, and the ugly consequences of poor governance.
“In Nigeria, the impending protest has raised a furore of opinions regarding its legitimacy and expediency. Many believe that the protests are not a solution to Nigeria’s problems. They are right. Protests are not meant to provide solutions to problems. Protests are held as a last resort for citizens who have cried out for solutions to problems and have not been heeded. Protests are the last resort for amplifying the voice of those who feel oppressed.
“We strongly believe that if governments in Nigeria at all levels had responded more promptly and effectively to the groans and distress calls of the Nigerian people the current protest would not have gathered momentum. Nigerians have cried out about dire hunger in the land, persistent insecurity, failed promises, dashed hopes, outrageous cost of living and governance, and ineffectiveness of the rule of law in curbing criminality among public officials not to talk of many public officers’ ineptitude with serious national issues.”
The bishops urged protesters to exercise restraint and not disturb those who choose not to participate, while also calling on the government to listen to the grievances of the people and take prompt action to address them. They emphasized that governance by palliatives, intimidation, or hide-and-seek methods cannot provide a permanent solution to the challenges faced by the country.
This communique comes at a time when Nigeria is facing numerous challenges, including economic hardship, insecurity, and political tensions. The bishops’ statement highlights the frustration and desperation of citizens who feel that their voices are not being heard by those in power.
