back to top
More

    ICYMI: Coastal Dwellers Defend Asari-Dokubo’s Position on #EndBadGovernance Protests

    Share

    The Coastal Dwellers Association of West Africa has issued a statement clarifying that Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, a prominent former Niger Delta militant, is not opposed to the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests, contrary to recent reports suggesting otherwise.

    Tom Inko-Tariah, the President of the Coastal Dwellers Association, addressed the controversy surrounding Dokubo-Asari’s remarks, which were reportedly misrepresented.

    The issue gained traction after a speech delivered by Dokubo-Asari at a Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) event in Port Harcourt was edited and circulated to imply his opposition to the nationwide protests.

    Inko-Tariah emphasised that the claims about Dokubo-Asari being against the protests are unfounded.

    He stated, “Mujahid Dokubo-Asari has dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities. It is inconsistent with his lifelong commitment to suggest that he would oppose legitimate protests aimed at addressing systemic issues.”

    Related Posts

    According to Inko-Tariah, the confusion appears to have stemmed from Dokubo-Asari’s cautionary comments about the potential for violence and instability associated with the protests.

    These remarks were intended to highlight concerns about maintaining order and upholding democratic principles, rather than opposing the protests themselves.

    “Dokubo-Asari’s concerns are rooted in his desire to prevent chaos and anarchy,” Inko-Tariah explained.

    “He has always championed the rights of the oppressed and advocated for peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

    “His remarks were meant to emphasize the need for a structured approach to addressing grievances without undermining democratic processes.”

    Dokubo-Asari had previously warned protest organizers about the potential repercussions of their actions in the Niger Delta.

    He expressed that the protest agenda did not adequately address the specific issues faced by the people of the region.

    However, Inko-Tariah asserts that this warning was misunderstood and taken out of context.

    In an earlier statement, Dokubo-Asari had highlighted the importance of addressing regional grievances in a manner that does not compromise the broader stability of the nation.

    “My focus has always been on ensuring that the voices of the marginalized are heard and their issues addressed. However, it is crucial to navigate these protests carefully to avoid unintended consequences,” he remarked.

    Related Posts

    The Coastal Dwellers Association’s clarification comes amid heightened tension and scrutiny surrounding the #EndBadGovernance protests, which have mobilized citizens across Nigeria to demand an end to what they perceive as systemic corruption and mismanagement.

    Beginning on August 1, the #EndBadGovernance protests emerged from widespread discontent over economic conditions and government policies.

    With thousands taking to the streets, demonstrators are demanding urgent government intervention to address the soaring cost of living and other socio-economic issues.

    Several violent incidents, including deaths and looting, have marred the protests, intensifying the tense situation and prompting calls for an end to the protests.

    While the Northern parts of the country have been rocked by the incidents of violence and arson, the South East and South West have largely experienced peaceful rallies.

    Inko-Tariah reiterated that Dokubo-Asari’s position is aligned with his longstanding advocacy for justice and equality.

    “It is important to recognize that Dokubo-Asari’s legacy is built on his unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights of the downtrodden. Any interpretation of his statements that suggests otherwise is misleading and does not reflect his true stance,” Inko-Tariah added.

    Read more

    Local News