Politics
THE Ulama Forum in Nigeria has strongly condemned the undemocratic and uncivil conduct of recent protests across the country.
Malam Aminu Muhammad, the Convener of the forum, made the condemnation in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
“The Ulama Forum unequivocally condemns the undemocratic and uncivil conduct of the protests, which resulted in wanton destruction of public and private property and the unfortunate loss of precious lives.
“It is deeply concerning to see young people, who represent the future of the nation, engaging in violent behaviour and abusing cultural and religious norms and values in a base and profane manner.
“The destruction of mosques, hospitals, street lights, and even facilities meant for youth empowerment speaks volumes about the level of moral and ethical decay in our society.”
Muhammad emphasised the need for the government to review its economic policies and programmes to ensure they transparently serve the people’s interests.
He also called on the government to take immediate measures to reduce poverty and hunger by cutting unnecessary spending, reducing food, energy, and transport costs.
“The government must engage constructively with young people, rather than labelling them as criminals, hooligans, or saboteurs,” he said.
He urged young people to shun violence when pressing their demands and beware of mischievous elements within and outside the country.
He also encouraged the Ulama to continue providing religious guidance, moral teachings, and promoting a culture of peace, while remaining non-partisan.
Muhammad called on Muslims to pray for national peace and unity, asking Allah to guide leaders to be just and compassionate, and for young people to be patient, resourceful, disciplined, and respectful.
He said as the forum called for an end to further protests and a resort to dialogue, it urged the press and social media influencers to be more circumspect in their reporting and analysis of situations.(NAN)
A.I
Aug. 12, 2024
Tags: Malam Aminu Muhammad
