The Kaduna State Non-Indigenes Forum (KSNIF) has withdrawn from the planned nationwide protest against economic hardship, citing concerns that hoodlums may hijack the protest to loot their shops and market stalls.
In a statement, KSNIF Chairman Chief Emeke Emmanuel Okafor and Secretary Mr Adewale Peter Adelanwa urged citizens to shun the protest, given the police ban on unlawful protests and past experiences of violence and looting in Kaduna.
The forum expressed concerns about the potential for violence and looting, citing past instances where protests in the state had degenerated into crisis.
KSNIF called on security agencies to tighten security around business premises and appealed to citizens not to join the protest, citing the risk of hijacking by groups with ulterior motives.
The forum stated that while they are affected by economic hardship, they cannot afford to lose their investments and properties, especially during Nigeria’s current economic crisis.
KSNIF also called on the state government to deploy security operatives to potential flashpoints should the protest take place.
Middle-Belt Times 