By Dr Kodilichukwu Okelekwe
Peaceful protest has long been recognized as a fundamental right in democratic societies, serving as a powerful tool for citizens to express their grievances, advocate for change, and hold governments accountable.
However, when protests turn violent, the consequences can be dire, undermining the very principles of democracy and jeopardizing public safety, stability, and progress. This short essay explores the dangers of violent protest while acknowledging the constitutional right of citizens to peacefully protest and draw government attention to their grievances.
The right to peaceful assembly and protest is enshrined in many constitutions, including that of Nigeria and international human rights instruments as a fundamental human right.
Peaceful protest plays a crucial role in democratic societies by enabling citizens to voice their concerns, seek redress for grievances, and advocate for social and political change. By allowing individuals to express dissent and engage in public discourse, peaceful protest fosters civic engagement, promotes transparency and accountability, and strengthens democratic institutions.
While peaceful protest is a legitimate and vital aspect of democratic governance, the transition to violent protest poses significant dangers and risks. Violence during protests can lead to loss of life, injuries, destruction of property, and widespread chaos, endangering the safety and well-being of both protesters and bystanders.
Violent protest undermines the legitimacy of the protesters’ cause, alienates public support, and hampers efforts to effect meaningful change through dialogue, negotiation, and lawful channels.
Furthermore, violent protest can provoke a disproportionate and heavy-handed response from law enforcement authorities, escalating tensions, exacerbating conflict, and eroding trust between citizens and the state.
The use of excessive force by security forces to quell violent protests can result in human rights violations, further inflaming the situation and perpetuating a cycle of violence and repression.
Nonviolent resistance, as advocated by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., offers a powerful alternative to violent protest, emphasizing the principles of peace, moral courage, and strategic action.
Nonviolent protest tactics, such as civil disobedience, boycotts, and peaceful demonstrations, have proven effective in bringing about social and political change while upholding the principles of dignity, respect, and solidarity.
By embracing nonviolence as a guiding principle, protesters can amplify their message, garner broader public support, and compel authorities to address their grievances through dialogue, negotiation, and democratic processes.
Nonviolent protest strategies not only minimize the risks of harm and escalation but also uphold the values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights, reinforcing the legitimacy and moral authority of the protesters’ cause.
Let me conclude by emphasizing that while the constitutional right to peaceful protest is a cornerstone of democratic societies, the dangers of violent protest cannot be understated. Violent protest undermines the fundamental principles of democracy, jeopardizes public safety, and hinders the pursuit of constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution of grievances.
By embracing nonviolent resistance and peaceful advocacy, citizens can effectively uphold their rights, amplify their voices, and drive positive change while safeguarding the integrity and stability of their societies. In a world fraught with challenges and injustices, the power of peaceful protest remains a beacon of hope, resilience, and progress for all those who seek to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive society.
Okelekwe (Ubom-Nibo) is the 2023 APC Senatorial Candidate for Anambra Central
