Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Shiekh Ahmad Gumi, says though corruption is hampering Nigeria’s development, the planned nationwide protest should be postponed for fear of causing widespread anarchy.

Recently, a Kano-based TikToker, Junaidu ‘Abusalma’ Abdullahi, was arrested and jailed for mobilising for the protest.

In a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Sunday, Mr Gumi acknowledged the pervasive corruption wrecking various sectors of Nigerian society, from government institutions to the economy. He warned that the timing of the protest could trigger anarchy in the country.

“With due apology to the few honest Nigerians, as corruption has permeated the fabric of the society, leaving virtually no institution without blemish, the recent move by the youth to demonstrate against bad governance and poor leadership is a great precursor of a brighter future for this nation,” Mr Gumi said.

He added, “At a time, the executives are largely corrupt. So also the legislature, the academia, the judiciary, the armed forces, the labor unions, and even the affluent citizens, all watching as the nation is drifting slowly to hunger and lawlessness, every quarter is after its interest of amassing wealth, the youth suddenly have stood out as the last hope of this nation.”

Mr Gumi, however, said the proposed August protest against bad governance, economic hardship and food insecurity should be postponed as it could cause anarchy, providing those who want to balkanise the country an opportunity for their mission.

“On this note, I am calling on the youth to postpone their intended protest this August to the first of January next year. The reasons are: First and foremost, to give enough time to coordinate their various youth groups for better organization so that whatever demands they want, would be articulated well for the betterment of the nation. It is said if you don’t plan to succeed you are then planning to fail,” the cleric said.

He stressed that “any premature action by the youth is mostly likely to lead to anarchy and greater turmoil as not every person is on the same page with their noble ambition,” urging the youths to “understand that there are many who want to balkanise the nation.” 

“And I believe they should not be given a free ride to do so,” Mr Gumi stated.

Mr Gumi’s statement comes as Nigerians prepare for nationwide protests spurred by severe economic hardship, including soaring inflation and food prices.

On Friday, Nigerian lawmakers urged Nigerians not to imitate Kenyans by hitting the streets in protests. 

Following the announcement of plans for this protest scheduled for August, the Nigerian government has distributed rice to various states and increased the minimum wage to N70,000 in an effort to alleviate tensions.