Fearing a possible breakdown of law and order, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has dissociated itself from the nationwide protest, tagged ‘Take-It-Back’ planned for today.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, NYCN President, Isah Abubakar, warning that such demonstrations could inflame tensions and destabilise the country.
Abubakar said while the council acknowledges the frustrations of many young Nigerians, it believes that the current atmosphere calls for restraint, dialogue, and national unity, not street protests.
His statement read, “We are deeply concerned about the rising tension across various regions and the increasingly fragile socio-political climate.
“As an organisation committed to youth empowerment, we understand the grievances driving these calls for protest.
“However, we urge calm and peaceful engagement over actions that may worsen the situation.”
The group noted that previous mass demonstrations, including the EndSARS protest against police brutality, were later hijacked by hoodlums, leading to widespread violence, destruction of public infrastructure, and loss of lives.
He further warned, “No one desires a repeat of such tragic events.”
The NYCN said that while recognising the legitimacy of the concerns raised by organisers of the planned protest, it is important to recognise that peace and national stability must take precedence.
The Northern youths also pledged to continue working with relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to ensure youth voices are heard through constructive and lawful means.
“We urge our fellow young Nigerians to come together, not through protests, but through meaningful dialogue and civic engagement.
“Let us channel our energy towards building a more inclusive and progressive Nigeria,” it added.
The council concluded by appealing to Nigerian youths to remain calm, avoid violence, and trust ongoing efforts by authorities to address pressing national issues.
“We must be patient and vigilant. The path to lasting change is through peaceful, strategic action—not chaos,” it said.
