By By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja.
Pic: The popular Ganaja junction in Lokoja as at the morning of Thursday, August 1,2024.
The usually bustling Ganaja Junction in Lokoja, Kogi State’s capital, was on Thursday, August 1, deserted as the nationwide hunger protest commenced.
The Reporters report that many of the Laborers, artisans, who usually go to the place for daily bread and petty traders were notably absent from the area.
Human and vehicular movements remained unhindered as at the time of this report.
Our correspondent, who visited Ganaja Junction and other prominent streets between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., observed that there was no signs of protest.
However, police officers and other security personnel were seen actively monitoring passersby.
The presence of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local vigilantes, and Federal Road Safety Corps was prominent.
They were seen barricading key locations, including Ganaja ,Junction, Government House Road, Post Office Paparanda, and NATACO.to maintain law and order.
At the state secretariat,many civil servants seen in their offices doing their duties.
In the neighbouring Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja, the scene was distinct: protesters took to the streets, but their demonstration was closely monitored by the police and other security personnel.
Meanwhile, the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society has urged all protest organizers to articulate clear objectives and demands for the government to address.
In a statement released on Thursday in Abuja and signed by National Imam, Fuad Adeyemi Ridwan, the society acknowledged Nigerians’ right to peaceful protest and the importance of voicing concerns over critical issues such as hunger, insecurity, and governance.
Al-Habibiyyah emphasized the need for a constructive approach that fosters dialogue and leads to tangible outcomes.
“While we understand the frustration and hardship many Nigerians are experiencing, we believe protests should have clear objectives and demands to ensure the government can respond effectively,” Imam Fuad said. “Vague or unfocused protests risk leading to chaos and may not result in meaningful change. We urge all organizers to engage in constructive dialogue and present specific, actionable demands to the government.”
The Imam also highlighted the society’s advocacy for open communication between protest leaders and government officials to promote understanding and collaboration.
He called on the government to enhance communication with protest organizers.
“Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society believes that through clear objectives, specific demands, and constructive dialogue, Nigeria can address its challenges more effectively and work towards a stable and prosperous future for all citizens,” he concluded.
The protesters are calling on the government to address hunger and high inflation among other economic challenges facing the country.
