By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi state Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello on Tuesday in Lokoja condemned the unpatriotic elements for hijacking youths’ EndSARS protest in some parts of the country and Kogi state.
Governor Bello who expressed sadness while briefing Journalists in government house said “We are now concerned about what has been generally peaceful citizens’ protest is now threatening to dissolve into mindless attacks on government facilities and running battles with the Police.”
He lamented that genuine protesters have been infiltrated by criminal elements armed with dangerous weapons acting in pursuit of nefarious intents which have no nexus with the noble objectives of the youth.
“In the absence of clear and present threat to lives, there is almost no circumstance under which it is right to engage protesting citizens with extreme prejudice. It is neither morally justifiable nor an acceptable function of the policing duty.” he added.
Alhaji Yahaya Bello reminded the youth of his support of their protests to end police brutality in the country. “No doubt the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) had caused so much pain to so many Nigerians. It had allowed its image to become so battered by the crudeness of a percentage few in its ranks that urgent and total overhaul was needed. “
Governor Bello who commended the youth for their protest to end SARS stressed that their agitation was justifiable as he did not hesitate to identify with them adding “I hold the opinion that you have won a battle, and I must now urge you not to lose the war. Protesters have a tangible and moral victory in the bag, and it is wisdom to safeguard it. “
He pointed out that “I and many people of goodwill who have stood with this cause are thus understandably pained by the needless and violent escalation we witnessed in several places yesterday”.
“It is now time to step back and explore other forms of dissent which will not provide crowd cover for persons and agenda which you obviously do not endorse. The nation’s Leadership must also be accorded some time and breathing space to push through on promises of change.”
Governor Yahaya Bello who commended President Muhammadu Buhari for the disbandment of SARS warned that the events of yesterday must not be allowed to continue but should let good sense and dialogue prevail all around.
