The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a call for Christians to refrain from participating in the planned nationwide ‘hunger protest’ scheduled from August 1 to August 10, 2024.

The state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of the Kontagora Diocese, emphasized that resorting to violence is unlikely to produce positive outcomes.

In his statement released in Minna, Yohanna highlighted the importance of peace as an ongoing and dynamic process that requires continuous effort and attention.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to not only implement palliative measures but also to focus on controlling prices of goods and services, addressing the escalating cost of living, and reducing fuel prices.

Yohanna appealed to church leaders, local government coordinators, and parents to advise their congregations and children to avoid participating in the protest.

He referenced Romans 13:1-3, which underscores the Christian obligation to respect lawful authority.

He cautioned that while peaceful protests with specific demands can be constructive, they have the potential to be hijacked by troublemakers, resulting in violence, arrests, and unintended harm.

He further explained that violence and unrest have historically led to destruction, loss of life, and setbacks rather than constructive change.

Yohanna urged stakeholders in Niger State to avoid joining the protest, noting that Governor Umaru Bago has already taken steps to reduce the prices of grains and is working to alleviate the hardships faced by residents.

In addition, Yohanna called for governments at all levels to promote unity and equity, urging them to avoid fostering ethnic or religious divisions.

He advocated for greater accountability, fairness in the distribution of resources and opportunities, and equitable employment practices across various sectors, including government agencies and the military.

His message emphasized the need for justice and transparency in governance to ensure the well-being of all citizens.