June 12: South-South Youth Warns Against Protests That Could Undermine National Unity

As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day, the South-South Youth Amalgamation has issued a strong plea to citizens, particularly the youth, to reject any planned protests that may compromise peace and national unity.

The group expressed serious concern over increasing calls for mass demonstrations across various regions, warning that such actions, if poorly managed or manipulated by subversive elements, could worsen the nation’s already fragile sociopolitical climate.

In a statement released on Thursday and signed by its convener, John Clarkson, the youth body condemned what it described as a surge in inflammatory propaganda and ethnic manipulation designed to stir unrest and discord among Nigerians.

Clarkson reflected on the #EndSARS protests of 2020, acknowledging their original purpose as a peaceful demand for police reform. However, he pointed out that the movement was eventually hijacked, resulting in chaos, misinformation, and widespread violence—particularly the controversial events at the Lekki Toll Gate.

He noted that these events were exploited by groups such as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), leading to violent attacks and ethnic targeting, further destabilizing the country.

“The right to protest is a democratic right,” Clarkson emphasized, “but that right ends where violence begins. Any demonstration that endangers lives and public safety undermines democracy rather than strengthens it.”

The group appealed to young people not to be used as instruments of destruction, cautioning that Nigeria cannot withstand another episode of national unrest fueled by divisive rhetoric or misinformation.

Citing international legal standards like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Clarkson stressed the importance of limiting violent gatherings in the interest of public safety and national security.

He called on all stakeholders—including government agencies, civil society groups, and the media—to champion peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding, rather than inciting further division.

Concluding, the South-South Youth Amalgamation reaffirmed its opposition to protests capable of disrupting public order, encouraging citizens to pursue peaceful and constructive solutions to national challenges while preserving the dignity and unity of every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity.