A Switzerland-based intergovernmental Organization, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria, has called for dialogue against protest as a means of restoring normalcy and reinstating inclusiveness in Nigerian society.
The Organisation's Ambassador-at-Large/Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, Dr. Duru Hezekiah on Thursday in Abuja commended the solidarity of Nigerians seeking good governance.
He recounted the hunger and economic hardship plaguing Nigerians, particularly how it has advanced criminal activities by unscrupulous persons who are constituting mayhem, insecurity, and kidnapping in broad daylight.
Regarding the agitated nationwide protest, Dr. Duru said, "Let's give dialogue a chance.
"Although protest is a fundamental human right enshrined in Nigeria's constitution, but protesting as a medium of conveying agitations or demands has failed in recent times.
"The fundamental rights of citizens are indeed the bedrock for managing and mitigating conflict, spurring economic growth, and protecting human dignity.
"While countries with democratic freedoms are more just, peaceful, and stable, and citizens can fulfill their potential," he said.
He called on President Bola Tinubu to constitute a Federal Dialogue Committee (FEDIC), an independent and politically active civil society network.
He said that the FEDIC should focus on strengthening and promoting accountable and transparent governance, dialogue, and negotiations as they span full respect for human rights, multi-actor partnership, equity, and responsiveness.
“Mr. President, and as a father to the nation, this is the right time to demonstrate your administrative skills and fatherly knowledge.
"I implore you to establish the FEDIC, to address the real drivers with all key interest groups invited to participate, including civil society, women, youth, and other traditionally excluded groups, this could salvage the nation from anarchy.”
“I have the hope that Nigerians will embrace dialogue and desist from the planned protest, with the assurances that President Tinubu’s Administration will as well engage effectively.
"Let’s give them time to rebuild our nation," he said.
He stressed that the current efforts at nation-building and the modest achievements we have made as a nation over the years are the positive outcomes of the time and energy our forebears invested in national dialogues.
"We must, therefore, continue to embrace the culture of dialogue as a civilized way to settle our differences in Nigeria.
"Nigerians should not embark on any protest, but rather give dialogue a chance, because dialogue is the most effective way to build consensus and resolve conflicts in any society.
"The FG must bring people of different agitations to a round table where every concern can be fairly considered," he said.
