During GEJ Time, You Saw Tinubu, Buhari In Protest, Now Atiku And Obi Should Be In Frontline -Shehu Sani

According to Daily Trust, Senator Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District from 2015 to 2019, recently discussed the significance of protests in a democratic society. Known for his background as a human rights activist, Sani has been at the forefront of numerous demonstrations advocating for various causes. In a recent interview, he reflected on the role of protests and the responsibilities of both government and opposition leaders in these situations.

Sani highlighted past instances of protests involving prominent political figures, specifically citing the anti-fuel subsidy protests during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. During these protests, notable leaders such as Bola Tinubu, Muhammadu Buhari, Mala Buni, and John Oyegun were visibly present on the front lines. He suggested that such participation from leaders is crucial in legitimizing and supporting the causes they endorse. In his view, leaders like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, who have expressed support for current protests, should similarly be seen leading these movements.

According to Sani, active participation from opposition figures is essential when they advocate for change through protests. He argued that it is not enough for these leaders to express support from the sidelines; they should be physically present and visible in the demonstrations they endorse. This, he believes, demonstrates a genuine commitment to the cause and provides moral support to the participants.

Furthermore, Sani emphasized the importance of government responsiveness to the demands of protesters. He suggested that one of the most effective ways to address public grievances is through dialogue and negotiation. He pointed to the example of how the government engaged with labor leaders during previous disputes, suggesting that similar engagement should occur with leaders of current protests.

He said: In the anti-fuel subsidy protest of then President Jonathan, you saw Bola Tinubu, you saw Buhari, you saw Mala Buni and Oyegun on the front line of the protest. So here, if Atiku, Peter Obi and the opposition believe in this protest, they should be in the front line. You cannot endorse something and then you stay in your house. But the best way to curb protest is for government to listen to the demands of the people, to set up a committee, just as they did with labour. They should also sit with the leaders of this protest and then see how it goes….Seē _ Morē