Anambra State Association of Town Unions, ASATU, the umbrella association of all the town unions of the one hundred and seventy-nine communities in Anambra State, has called for caution on the planned nationwide protest against the current economic hardships facing the country.

 

In a statement signed by its National President, Chief Titus Akpudo, the organization acknowledged that while citizens have the constitutional right to protest, such actions must be conducted within the ambits of the law.

 

It warned that protests are vulnerable to being hijacked by hooligans, miscreants, and political thugs who may exploit the situation to commit acts of violence and engage in criminal activities for political or selfish gains.

 

ASATU expressed concern that the protest could create a dangerous environment in which Ndigbo, especially Ndi Anambra, and their businesses and properties as they may be maliciously targeted across the nation.

 

It further called that in as much as the whole part of the country is facing absolute tough times as a result of the biting economic hardship on the masses, Ndi Anambra within and outside the State and Nigerians in general should apply maximum caution to avoid unwarranted destruction of life, goods and property.

 

The statement, further, called on the Presidents-General of various communities and Leaders of Ndi Anambra and Ndi Igbo generally across the State to ensure that their people remain law abiding and of good conduct during this critical period and always in order not to give room for willful attacks on our people.

 

It advocated dialogue and diplomacy between the protest organizers and the Federal Government as a constructive means of addressing the current challenges.

 

It further appealed to the Federal government to critically look into the yearning of the masses, to alleviate their pains and sufferings as people are being choked up on daily basis as a result of the economic challenges.