Governor Yahaya Bello has alleged that the #EndSARS protest holding in some parts of the country has been hijacked by criminals.
The Kogi State Governor who made the “disclosure” in a state-wide broadcast on Tuesday October 13, further alleged that these criminals are acting in pursuit of nefarious intent.
Yahaya Bello expressed confidence in President Muhammadu Buhari’s promise of reforming the police, and also asked the #EndSARS protesters to step back and explore other forms of dissent which will not provide crowd cover for people with ulterior motives.
He said;
“We are now concerned that what has been a generally peaceful citizens’ protest is now threatening to dissolve into mindless attacks on government facilities and running battles with the police.
“Greatest and ever gallant Nigerian youths, from what we saw yesterday, the ranks of genuine protesters have been infiltrated by criminal elements armed with dangerous weapons.
“Not only that but they are acting in pursuit of nefarious intent which have no nexus with your noble objectives. I hold the opinion that you have won a battle, and I must now urge you not to lose the war. Protesters have a tangible and moral victory in the bag, and it is wisdom to safeguard it.
“It is now time to step back and explore other forms of dissent which will not provide crowd cover for persons and agenda which you obviously do not endorse.
“The nation’s leadership must also be accorded some time and breathing space to push through on promises of change.”