Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State underscored the importance of dialogue and understanding as the most effective means of addressing the nation’s pressing challenges, urging citizens to shun protests in favor of constructive engagement.
Speaking at a high-stakes meeting attended by representatives from organized labor, civil society organizations, and trade unions, Governor Yahaya made a compelling case for peaceful resolution and mutual sacrifice.
“It is dialogue and understanding that will bring peace and development, not protest and violence,” he stated, appealing to both leaders and followers to embrace a spirit of cooperation for the nation’s survival.
The governor’s message resonated strongly amidst rising tensions, as business leaders and civil society groups had recently contemplated a statewide protest.
Commending their decision to abandon the planned demonstration, Governor Yahaya assured the stakeholders that their grievances would be addressed through dialogue. He also issued a stern warning to business owners against hoarding essential commodities, hinting at possible government intervention should the practice continue.
A significant concern raised during the meeting was the delay in the arrival of 20 trucks of rice allocated to Gombe State by the Federal Government.
This rice, intended for free distribution to alleviate economic hardships, has yet to be received, causing anxiety among the populace. Despite this setback, Governor Yahaya reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing relief through ongoing palliative measures and investments in key sectors such as education, health, and agriculture.
The governor also reassured state workers of his government’s dedication to regular salary payments and the clearance of outstanding gratuities and entitlements, highlighting the administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of its employees.
In their responses, key representatives from the Organized Labour, the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, and the Gombe State Traders Association expressed unified support for peaceful engagement over protest.
Comrade Yusuf Aish Bello, Chairman of the Gombe State chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress, emphasized the collective decision to prioritize dialogue. Similarly, leaders Ibrahim 3000 and Alhaji Sunusi echoed this sentiment, advocating for peaceful coexistence and constructive discussions as pathways to resolving conflicts.
