The Kano Peace Committee (KPC) has urged youths in Kano State to avoid participating in a planned protest scheduled for October 1, 2024, citing concerns over the potential destruction of public and private property. The KPC released a statement on Monday, warning against the protest and emphasizing the importance of preserving peace and security in the state.

“We beseech Kano youths to stay away from the 1st October planned protest in the interest of peace, security, and integrity of our dear state,” said Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, the convener and head of the KPC Secretariat.

Waiya expressed concern about a sponsored campaign allegedly mobilizing youths to participate in the second phase of an anti-government protest, which had seen violent episodes earlier in August 2024.

The committee referenced the devastating impact of the August protests, during which Kano experienced significant economic, social, and commercial setbacks. “Kano State experienced one of its worst nightmares, more than any other state in the country,” the statement read. The committee noted the losses incurred during the previous protest, including the destruction of properties worth billions and the loss of lives.

Many of those who participated in the previous protest are still rotting in jail, while those who instigated them have abandoned them,” the statement added, highlighting that some of the youth who were involved have been left to deal with the consequences alone. The committee urged the youth to think critically about their involvement in protests and to avoid being manipulated by “selfish politicians.”

The KPC also criticized political actors whom they accused of using vulnerable youths for their own gains, while ensuring a brighter future for their own children. “It is high time to emancipate ourselves from the clutches of political manipulation,” the statement said, adding that youths should focus on building a better future for themselves rather than serving the interests of others.

The committee reminded residents that Kano State remains their home, and as such, they have a responsibility to protect its integrity and prevent any further destruction. “We have a duty to protect and preserve its integrity, honour, and respect against all evil plans,” the statement said.

In its conclusion, the KPC commended the efforts of security agencies in maintaining order during previous protests and urged them to continue upholding the law in their efforts to safeguard the state. “It is time to join our hands to salvage our dear state and our country from any evil plans that may destroy our peace and peaceful coexistence.”

The statement from the KPC comes amid heightened tensions and growing calls for protests nationwide against bad governance, with some fearing a repeat of the violence that characterized earlier demonstrations.