In response to the current economic turmoil gripping the nation, the Chris Onyekachi Simon Foundation (COSIM) held a press conference to address the state of the nation and the planned nationwide hunger protest.
The Foundation, led by Dr. Chris Onyekachi Simon, has long been at the forefront of empowering the less privileged and vulnerable in society.
With the increasing number of families unable to afford basic necessities, COSIM felt compelled to address the growing unrest and the proposed protest.
Dr. Chris Onyekachi Simon opened the conference by thanking the assembled press members for their presence. He then painted a grim picture of the current situation, highlighting how the economic challenges have exacerbated the vulnerability of many Nigerians.
“No Nigerian home can boast of three square meals,” he lamented. The widespread hunger and financial constraints have stripped many families of their joy and peace, leaving them disillusioned and desperate.
COSIM, like many other non-governmental organizations, is deeply troubled by the dire circumstances facing Nigerians. The Foundation’s mission of empowering and supporting the less privileged has become increasingly challenging as more people fall into poverty.
Dr. Simon’s voice conveyed the heartbreak felt by those who witness the daily struggles of their fellow citizens. “Many Nigerians are not happy and they blame the government for the current situation of the country,” he acknowledged.
Amid this discontent, calls for a nationwide hunger protest have gained momentum. Many citizens, inspired by protests in other countries like Kenya, believe that such actions can bring about the desired change.
However, Dr. Simon urged caution, appealing to Nigerians to reconsider the planned protest for the sake of peace and the safety of lives and properties.
While he recognized the constitutional right to protest, Dr. Simon emphasized that there are alternative, peaceful resolutions to address the nation’s challenges.
“Though protests are a constitutional right of the people, there can be peaceful resolutions without protests that could lead to infrastructure destruction at the expense of taxpayers,” he explained. He warned that a protest, while intended to alleviate suffering, might instead double the hardships faced by Nigerians.
“The protest, if it takes place, will double the suffering of Nigerians,” he cautioned, noting that the Foundation is already overwhelmed by the challenges of supporting the vulnerable.
Dr. Simon appealed for patience and collaboration with the government to resolve the nation’s issues. He reflected on the #EndSARS protests as a cautionary tale, highlighting the extensive rebuilding and reconstruction required after the demonstrations, as well as the irreplaceable loss of lives. “The #EndSARS movement should be an eye-opener to the many challenges that come with rebuilding and reconstruction of what was destroyed, not to talk of the lives lost that cannot be replaced,” he said.
While acknowledging that significant change often requires sacrifices, Dr. Simon urged Nigerians to carefully consider whether these sacrifices are worth the struggle.
“We should consider if the sacrifices are indeed worth the struggle,” he advised. He used a metaphor to illustrate his point: “The remedy to a headache should not be applied to a stomach ache.” Just as inappropriate remedies can worsen ailments, misguided actions can lead to unintended consequences. “We cannot afford to throw the country into chaos against the backdrop of protest,” he concluded.
Dr. Simon’s heartfelt appeal underscored the Foundation’s commitment to finding peaceful solutions to the nation’s problems.
He reiterated COSIM’s dedication to empowering the less privileged and vulnerable, even as the Foundation grapples with its own challenges in providing support. His message was clear: while the frustration and anger of Nigerians are valid, the path to lasting change lies in patience, dialogue, and partnership with the government.
The press conference ended with a sense of urgency and hope. Dr. Simon’s words resonated with those in attendance, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the current despair.
The Chris Onyekachi Simon Foundation remains steadfast in its mission, advocating for peaceful resolutions and continued efforts to support those in need.
As the nation navigates these turbulent times, the Foundation’s call for patience and collaboration stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of unity in overcoming adversity.