THE UNTOLD STORY: Why I Wrote a Book on the August Protests That Will Shake Nigeria to Its Core

Fellow Nigerians, many are unaware that the race for the 2027 presidential and gubernatorial elections across Nigeria’s 36 states has begun in earnest. This is despite the incumbent president and governors still having two years and five months left in their tenure.

What’s even more astonishing and amusing is the scenario unfolding in Kwara State. It’s clear that the race has begun, with intense competition among politicians, evident in the donations made at the Ilorin Emirates Development Progressive Union (IEDPU) and Barrister Iyiola Akogun’s newly launched Kwara Redemption Movement (KRM). Other signs and events indicate that the contest has commenced.

As a columnist, I rarely witness events in Nigeria or Kwara State without feeling compelled to share my thoughts. My column, “Pentalk,” reflects my passion for writing. The pen is mightier than the sword, and I’m always happy when I hold my pen. Writing brings me joy,it’s in my blood. However, I’ll set aside these thoughts until January. Please accept my apologies for this preamble, which is characteristic of my writing style.

Now, let’s proceed to the main topic. Why did I decide to write about the August protests in Nigeria? The August protests exposed Nigeria to the world, sparking panic among the 36 state governors, traditional rulers, and religious leaders. Many Nigerians were apprehensive, unsure of the protests’ outcome.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience with his government. He also urged the 36 state governors to persuade their citizens not to join the protests. Furthermore, the president appealed to imams and pastors to advise their worshippers against participating in the protests.

Regrettably, the protests led to the destruction of government properties in Kano, Borno, Jigawa, Bauchi, Abuja, and other parts of Nigeria, resulting in loss of life. What lessons have the president, 36 state governors, aspiring leaders, community organizations, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and private individuals learned from this experience?

How can we prevent future protests that might lead to chaos? These questions motivated me to write my book, “The Voice of Change: A Call for Transparency and Accountability, Lessons from August Protests in Nigeria.” As someone who witnessed these events firsthand, I was involved in the protests, interacted with security operatives, and faced false accusations.

Throughout this ordeal, my priority remained the well-being of Nigeria. I believe it’s our collective responsibility to ensure the country’s progress and prosperity.

My love for Nigeria and its progress led me to shelve the idea of protests after meeting with the Kwara State Commissioner of Police. Not even the evil plots against me, the false accusations, and the different names I was called by the some politician thinking am againsting their government could deter me. When one genuinely loves their country, without ulterior motives or personal grudges against the government or governors, they must reconsider their stance when advised by security experts.

This realization hit home after witnessing the violent turn of events in Bauchi, Kano, Borno, Jigawa, Kaduna, and other states. It became clear that shelving the protest idea was necessary, and instead, providing a solution, framework, guide, or memoir that could serve as a reference point for the current government and aspiring leaders alike.

Such a resource would help mitigate or prevent future protests that could escalate into violence. This epiphany inspired me to write “The Voice of Change,” which will be launched tomorrow morning. This book is not merely a story, it’s a revolutionary work that can transform the minds of billions and redefine the leadership approach of millions particularly in Nigeria.

As we all know, books have the power to change lives and shape the course of history. The books we’ve read have transformed us into who we are today. Reading has been instrumental in our growth, and books continue to play a vital role in our lives.

Books are incredibly important, and the more you read, the more knowledge you gain and the broader your exposure to new ideas. I strongly urge everyone to purchase this book, as it’s not just a storytelling book, but a revolutionary one. I devoted considerable time and conducted thorough research to create a work that will take readers on a journey back to the era of Tafawa Balewa, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Muritala Muhammad, Obasanjo and presently now Tinubu.

This book explores how these iconic leaders spent their lifetimes delivering effective service to Nigeria, and prompts us to reflect on why we’re currently facing numerous challenges. It also examines why we can’t seem to learn from the past. Furthermore, the book analyzes events in other developed countries, offering valuable lessons for Nigeria to learn from.In essence, this is no ordinary book it’s a revolutionary work that has the potential to transform perspectives and inspire meaningful change.

Join us tomorrow for the book launch and gain invaluable insights. I assure you that it will be a worthwhile experience, and you won’t regret it. Thank you, and may God bless.

Signed

Comrade Mashood Lanrey Osho is a Human Right Activist, Anti-corruption Crusader, Author and public policy Analyst.

28th of December,3024.

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