The Anambra State Association of Town Union, ASATU, the umbrella association of all the town unions of the 179 communities in Anambra State, has urged caution regarding the planned nationwide protest against the current economic hardships facing the country.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that in a statement signed by its National President, Chief Titus Akpudo, the organization acknowledged that while citizens have the constitutionally guaranteed right to protest, such actions must be conducted within the boundaries of law and order.
ASATU President warned that protests are vulnerable to being hijacked by hooligans, miscreants, and political thugs who may exploit the situation to commit acts of violence and engage in criminal activities for political or selfish gains.
Most importantly, ASATU expressed concern that the protest could create a dangerous environment in which Ndigbo, especially Ndi Anambra, and their businesses and properties as they may be maliciously targeted across the nation.
Akpudo further called that in as much as the whole part of the country is facing absolute tough times as a result of the bitting economic hardship on the masses, Ndi Anambra within and outside the State and Nigerians in general should apply maximum caution to avoid unwarranted destruction of life, goods and property.
The statement, further, called on the Presidents-General of various communities and Leaders of Ndi Anambra and Ndi Igbo generally across the State to ensure that their people remain law biding and of good conduct during this critical period and of course always in order not to give room for wilful attacks on our people.
Therefore, ASATU Boss advocates for dialogue and diplomacy between the protest organizers and the Federal Government as a constructive means of addressing the current challenges.
Akpudo further appealed to the Federal government to critically look into the yearning of the masses, to alleviate their pains and sufferings as people are being choked up on daily basis as a result of the economic challenges.
He emphasized that the protest may ultimately prove counterproductive if the protesters fail to heed to the call for dialogue, peaceful protest or resort to violence.
“Protests should be free from violence, disruption of economic activities, and the destruction of lives and property” – the statement said.
