Traders, marketers, and shop owners across the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have issued a stern warning to protesters planning demonstrations on October 1st, urging them to avoid disrupting business activities in the nation’s capital. The warning comes amidst growing concerns over the potential for unrest during protests aimed at highlighting the rising cost of living, insecurity, and other challenges since President Bola Tinubu took office.
In a statement issued by Chief Raphael Okorie, Chairman of all Chairmen and Secretaries of FCT Markets and Plazas, the traders expressed their apprehension about the adverse effects of protests on their businesses. Okorie noted that while citizens have the right to protest, previous demonstrations have often led to chaos, theft, and significant damage to shops, markets, and plazas, leaving local traders to bear the brunt of the destruction.
“We have experienced this before. Protests, while well-intentioned, can quickly spiral out of control, with hoodlums taking advantage of the situation to loot and vandalize our properties,” Okorie said. “As business owners, we will not tolerate any attack on our enterprises disguised as protests.”
The planned October 1st protests are reportedly being organized to call attention to the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians, particularly the sharp rise in the cost of living. While Okorie acknowledged these challenges, he emphasized that disruptive protests in the nation’s capital could have a detrimental impact on small businesses, many of which are already struggling to stay afloat in the current economic climate.
“We understand that Nigeria is going through a tough time. The high cost of living is a burden for everyone, including us as traders,” Okorie admitted. “But taking to the streets in protest, especially when there is a risk of violence and disorder, will only hurt the very people who are trying to make an honest living in these difficult times.”
According to Okorie, while traders are sympathetic to the frustrations of those planning to protest, they believe that there are more constructive ways to engage with the government and address grievances. He called on protesters to consider peaceful alternatives for voicing their concerns, urging them to avoid actions that could lead to chaos and destruction.
“We respect the right to protest, but we strongly advise against it in this case due to the potential for violence and disruption,” he said. “Too often, hoodlums hijack these protests, and our members are left to pick up the pieces. Our businesses, properties, and livelihoods are put at risk.”
Okorie stressed that the FCT business community remains committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to address the economic challenges facing the country. He expressed hope that the ongoing reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, though difficult, would eventually lead to better days for Nigerians.
“We believe that brighter days are ahead for our nation,” he stated. “That’s why we have chosen not to engage in the planned protests on October 1st. We urge others to consider the potential consequences of these actions and to explore alternative avenues for dialogue and peaceful engagement with the government.”
The traders’ call for restraint reflects a growing concern among Abuja’s business owners that protests, while sometimes necessary, can often lead to unintended consequences for those trying to earn a living. With the economy in a precarious state, many traders fear that further disruptions could push them out of business altogether.
As tensions continue to rise over the cost of living and other pressing issues, Okorie’s appeal highlights the delicate balance between exercising the right to protest and ensuring that such actions do not escalate into violence and chaos. The FCT traders are hopeful that their message will resonate with those planning to protest, urging them to seek peaceful, non-disruptive methods of expressing their concerns.
Okorie reiterated the traders’ position: “We are not opposing the right to protest, but we ask for understanding. Our markets and businesses cannot afford another wave of destruction. We stand for peace, dialogue, and cooperation as the best way forward for Nigeria.”
