#EndBadGovernance Protests: Group Urges Youth To Avoid Terrorist Manipulation, Enticement

The Truth Alliance, a coalition of civil society organisations dedicated to exposing terrorist groups’ recruitment tactics, has warned young people, particularly in the Northeast, against being infiltrated by terrorist elements through violent protests.

This comes as the organisation assesses the impact of the #EndBadGovernance protests across the country, with Borno State experiencing terrorist bombings during the period.

The organisation, in a statement issued yesterday by its Spokesperson, Mustapha Ahmed, warned against being duped by terrorist groups that use times of unrest to recruit vulnerable individuals, encouraging them to join their ranks under the guise of vengeance against the government.

Part of the statement read: “Protests have erupted across northeast Nigeria, with citizens in Borno and surrounding states taking to the streets to express their outrage at rising hunger and dissatisfaction with governance. The demonstrations, which were part of a larger wave of unrest spreading across Africa, resulted in widespread violence and destruction throughout Nigeria.

“In Borno State, for example, the situation deteriorated as insurgents infiltrated the protests, resulting in a bomb blast in Kawuri Village that killed 16 people. The state’s governor blamed the violence on some groups taking advantage of the chaos to further their own agenda. In response to the unrest, authorities have imposed a 24-hour curfew in Borno, Yobe, and Kano states, particularly in areas where private and public property has been looted and vehicles have been set on fire.

“The violence we are witnessing is a stark reminder of how easily situations can be exploited by those with malicious intent,” said a Truth Alliance spokesperson. “We urge the youth of Borno and the northeast to reject violence in favour of peaceful demonstrations or dialogue, as understanding the tactics used by terrorist groups to manipulate and recruit is critical.”

According to Communications Minister Bosun Tijani, protesters in Kano stormed and looted a Digital Innovation Park that was set to open soon. The unrest has also spread to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, and neighbouring Niger State, where police used tear gas to disperse crowds, killing at least six people, according to reports.

The Truth Alliance also emphasised the significance of education and awareness in combating the influence of terrorist organisations. The coalition advocated for constructive dialogue with community leaders, civil society organisations, and government officials to address the root causes of the protests.

“As northeast Nigeria faces hunger, economic instability, and insecurity, the Truth Alliance remains dedicated to promoting peace and security. The organisation encourages all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and collaboration in order to find long-term solutions to the region’s problems.

“However, the Truth Alliance aims to empower communities in Borno and the northeast to resist violence and build a more secure future,” the statement said.