The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has disassociated itself from the Take-It-Back protest scheduled for Monday, warning that such demonstrations risk inflaming tensions and destabilising the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, April 6, in Kaduna, the council’s president, Isah Abubakar, acknowledged the widespread frustrations among young Nigerians but insisted that the current situation demands restraint, unity, and dialogue.
“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 statement read.
The group referenced past mass actions, particularly the EndSARS protests, which were later hijacked by hoodlums. According to Abubakar, this led to the destruction of public property, violence, and loss of lives.
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“No one desires a repeat of such tragic events,” Abubakar warned.
While recognising the legitimacy of the issues raised by the organisers, the council insisted that national peace and stability must come first. It said it would continue to work with government agencies and stakeholders to ensure youth voices are heard in lawful and constructive ways.
“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,” the statement added.
The NYCN ended its statement with a call for calm and vigilance. “We must be patient and vigilant. The path to lasting change is through peaceful, strategic action—not chaos,” it said.