Navigating Social Media Activism: A Call To Prudent Action

BY ISAAC ASABOR

Following the #EndSARS movement, Nigeria experienced a significant surge in digital activism. Young activists used social media platforms to raise their voices, demand justice, and call for the dissolution of the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). However, based on the current state of online discourse, it appears that another protest akin to #EndSARS is brewing.

Given the preceding conjectural viewpoint, it is imperative that we investigate the implications of such protest and advocate for a measured approach that protects both citizens’ rights and the nation’s fragile economy. The reasons for the preceding viewpoint are not farfetched, as there are undeniable risks associated with unrestrained protests. In fact, while protests are important tools for social change, they also pose inherent risks, which is why another large-scale protest could harm Nigeria’s economy.

Protests, for example, disrupt daily life and have an impact on businesses, transportation, and essential services, while prolonged demonstrations can disrupt supply chains, reduce productivity, and create investor uncertainty.

Again, youths, particularly those classified as Generation Zs, should remember that Nigeria’s economy is dependent on foreign investment, and that a prolonged protest could erode investor confidence, resulting in capital flight and stalling economic growth.

Protest vandalism and clashes can harm public infrastructure, strain government resources, and escalate tensions, potentially leading to inflation and food insecurity.

Given that there are constructive ways to address Nigeria’s challenges other than violence, it is important to remember in this context that Nigeria is currently experiencing economic hardship and is at a critical juncture. So, while it is undeniable that while frustration simmers, the prospect of violent protests looms, anyone considering protests should take a step back and consider alternative paths because violent protests are counterproductive. Instead of setting the country on fire, it is more practical to advocate for more effective ways to address our grievances.

In fact, if there are factors to consider that would justify abandoning the idea of protests, they are undoubtedly those that have had a negative impact on Nigeria’s economy in recent years, including recession, inflation, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. Paradoxically, citizens bear the brunt of rising food prices, power outages, and limited access to quality healthcare. A closer look at the retrogressive socioeconomic factors reveals that they are collectively dire in nature, which causes emotions to run high and the desire to protest violently to appear justified. However, they do not justify a protest.

Instead of resorting to nationwide protests, this writer believes there is a need to consider other avenues for communicating with the government about how bad the economy has become since the current leaders took office on May 29, 2023.

First and foremost, there is an urgent need to engage in constructive conversations with policymakers, legislators, and local leaders, as well as to demand accountability and transparency more than ever before.

Again, every Nigerian should join or support civil society organisations advocating for reforms, as collective voices have a greater impact.

In a similar vein, rather than engaging in nationwide protests, it is important to always follow legal channels by filing petitions with courts, requesting Freedom of Information, and attending public hearings.

Though organising peaceful demonstrations could have been one of the recommendations in this case because it embodies respect for the law and public order. Unfortunately, in this part of the world, peaceful demonstrations are frequently hijacked by miscreants known as “area boys.” Not only that, but it appears that police officers and members of other security agencies in the country always struggle to understand what peaceful protest looks like, and thus always stir up a hornet’s nest by maiming or killing protesters, causing protesters to seek vengeance. After all, the fundamental principle of activism is that “an injury to one is an injury to all.” It means that any mistreatment of a protester opens up the possibility of retaliation.

In fact, while we hope for a peaceful Nigeria in which issues are resolved amicably and without hostility, the presidency must be sensitive in its dissemination of information to the general public. The reason for the foregoing viewpoint is not farfetched, given the raging controversy surrounding Peter Obi’s alleged involvement in the planned protest.

Without a doubt, it is relevant to recall that in the aftermath of the planned nationwide anti-government protest, accusations have circulated about Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections. The Presidency claims Obi and his supporters are behind the protest, which has been organised using the hashtags #TinubuMustGo and #Revolution2024. However, the Labour Party has denied these allegations, warning against involving Obi in the rising tension.

Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, took to X (formerly Twitter) to accuse Obi and his supporters of using treasonable hashtags. According to Onanuga, calling for the overthrow of an elected government and advocating for revolution constitutes high treason. He also linked the protest organisers to the #EndSARS protests in October 2020, which became violent after being infiltrated by IPOB members.

Onanuga also claimed that the protest organisers lacked patience and intended to destabilise Nigeria by staging a civilian coup against President Bola Tinubu. He even named specific people who allegedly helped organise the protest.

However, the Labour Party leadership quickly responded to the accusations. They emphasised that Peter Obi was not behind the planned protest and advised against involving his name in the controversy. The party maintained that Obi’s priority was constructive engagement and democratic processes, rather than inciting unrest.

As the planned protest approaches, it is critical to distinguish fact from fiction. While accusations fly, it is critical to maintain a balanced and evidence-based approach. Peter Obi’s name should not be unfairly associated with this situation, and the emphasis should remain on addressing the legitimate concerns raised by the protesters.

In fact, journalists working as media aides at the Presidency should not forget the importance of verifying information before making claims. As a result, they should always seek the truth and encourage informed discussion.

Again, it should be noted that Nigerians have a long history of collective action. From the fight against military rule to #EndSARS, our voices are important. Let us focus our efforts on strategic, peaceful advocacy.

To put it succinctly at this point, it is reasonable to believe that violence causes more suffering. As citizens, we must make wise choices. Let us speak truth to power, demand accountability, and work towards a Nigeria of prosperity and justice, remembering that our strength lies not in chaos, but in unity and resilience.