KADUNA, NIGERIA – The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has firmly distanced itself from the planned nationwide protest tagged “Take-It-Back”, warning that such actions could destabilize the country and plunge it into chaos.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, the council’s President, Isah Abubakar, urged Nigerian youths to prioritize peace, unity, and dialogue over mass protests, especially given the nation’s fragile socio-political climate.
“We understand the pain and frustration many young Nigerians feel, but now is not the time for protests that may spiral out of control,” Abubakar said.
He cited concerns that the protest, though potentially well-intentioned, could be hijacked by miscreants or political opportunists, much like the EndSARS demonstrations which, though initially peaceful, ended in widespread violence, destruction, and tragic loss of lives.
“No one desires a repeat of such tragic events,” he warned.
A Call for Calm and Constructive Dialogue
While acknowledging the validity of the grievances driving calls for protest, the NYCN maintained that peaceful civic engagement is a more effective and sustainable path forward.
The council pledged to collaborate with relevant government agencies and civil society groups to ensure that youth voices are heard without inciting conflict.
“We urge our fellow young Nigerians to come together not through protests, but through constructive dialogue, civic participation, and strategic advocacy,” the council added.
Working Toward an Inclusive Nigeria
Emphasizing their commitment to youth empowerment and national development, the NYCN urged Nigerian youths to remain calm, law-abiding, and hopeful, noting that true change comes through unity, patience, and purposeful action.
“We must stay vigilant and strategic. The road to a better Nigeria is paved with peaceful and thoughtful actions, not chaos.”
