Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria wishes to inform the general public, members of the media, and all Nigerians that our planned Warning Protest scheduled for Wednesday, 5th August 2026, over the continued xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, has been postponed until further notice. This was contained in a press release signed by Hon. Comrade Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu, National Youth Leader of APGA and the Chairman, Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) and announced by Ozu Important, National Youth Leader of PRP and Publicity Secretary of FNYLPPN.
The press statement reads: “This decision was reached after the leadership of the Forum honoured an invitation from the Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday, 4th August 2026.
“During the engagement, the DSS briefed the Forum on credible security intelligence indicating that other groups like the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, IMN (Elzakzakki group) and Take it Back Movement and Revolution Now (Sowore group) are protesting on the same day. They advised that Wednesday, 5th August 2026 may not be the most suitable date for our peaceful protest. They expressed fear that there is the possibility that our protest could be infiltrated or hijacked by elements outside our control, cause a breakdown of law and order, and ultimately shift responsibility and public blame to our Forum.
“Following this security briefing, the Forum’s leadership immediately convened an emergency virtual meeting with members of the Forum, many of whom had already travelled from different parts of the country to Abuja in preparation for the protest.
“After careful deliberation, we unanimously resolved that it is in the overriding interest of the country, public safety and national peace, that we should postpone the protest. For our forum it’s Nigeria and the integrity of our Forum first before every other consideration.
“The Forum wishes to state unequivocally that we are a peaceful, law-abiding and responsible organisation. Our objective has never been to promote violence, disorder or hostility against any individual or group. Our mission is to advocate for the protection of Nigerians, to demand justice for victims of xenophobic attacks, and to encourage stronger diplomatic and lawful measures that will guarantee the safety and dignity of Nigerians living in South Africa.
“The DSS also briefed us on a number of positive diplomatic and governmental efforts currently being undertaken by the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the crisis, engage with the South African authorities, and provide support to affected Nigerians. We appreciate these efforts and hope they will produce lasting solutions.
“We sincerely appreciate all members of the Forum, Nigerian youths, civil society organisations, and patriotic Nigerians who demonstrated commitment and solidarity by preparing to participate in the protest. Your patriotism, sacrifices and dedication are deeply appreciated.
“The postponement of this protest does not amount to a withdrawal of our concerns or demands. Our commitment to defending the rights, dignity and safety of Nigerians everywhere, especially the youths remains unwavering. We remain resolute on our demands that:
(1) Xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa must end permanently.
(2) Victims must receive justice and adequate compensation.
(3) Perpetrators must be identified and held accountable.
(4) Both governments of Nigeria and South Africa must continue to strengthen mechanisms for protecting the lives and property of Nigeria citizens living in South Africa.
“A new date for the Protest will be announced if the crisis is not resolved and after further consultations and engagements with relevant stakeholders.
“We thank Nigerians for their understanding, maturity, and continued support, and we urge everyone to remain peaceful and law abiding, ” it also added.
END