A coalition of civil society organizations has joined the call for peace and unity as the nationwide #Endbadgovernance protest is set to begin on Thursday, 1st August 2024.

The group emphasized that instead of protests which could lead to violence on a large scale, dialogue with the government should be employed to prevent escalation into a volatile situation. The organizations involved include the Centre for Civil Relations, Open Dialogue and Development (C-CODED) led by Ambassador Austin Peacemaker, the Initiative for Economic and Leadership Watch in Nigeria led by Splendour Agbonkpolor, the Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative led by Chris Ofomhi, the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance led by Ogakwu Dominic, and the Restore Nigeria Initiative led by Victor Itsede.

During his address in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, Ambassador Austin Peacemaker stressed that “the World Press Conference is a clarion call for the people of Nigeria to reject any form of violent protest being incited by some unpatriotic individuals to safeguard our nation’s future. We urge the youth to direct their energy towards constructive dialogue and peaceful engagement, steering clear of those who seek to exploit their frustrations for personal gain.”

Splendour Agbonkpolor of the Initiative for Economic and Leadership Watch in Nigeria added that the protest’s purpose could backfire if people are manipulated into committing acts of violence.