The Northern Socio-Political Rights Network (NSPRN), an advocacy group based in Northern Nigeria, has disclosed that it declined a financial offer it received to participate in a protest targeting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

In a statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday, the President of NSPRN, Mohammed Farouk Lawal, said the group was approached earlier in the week by individuals claiming to represent certain political interests in Zamfara State. According to Lawal, the proposal involved organising a protest and making public statements concerning the administration’s handling of alleged corruption cases.

“We were contacted through intermediaries and offered N200 million to mobilise a protest in Abuja. The focus was to create the impression of widespread dissatisfaction in the North regarding certain government decisions,” Lawal said.

He noted that while the group respects the democratic right to protest, it prioritises its independence and commitment to constructive engagement.

“We believe in open dialogue and supporting security-focused development in the North. Participating in a protest that doesn’t align with our values or community interests is not in line with our mission,” he added.

Lawal explained that the proposal involved reading out pre-written statements, addressing press conferences, and organising demonstrations at notable public institutions. He said NSPRN declined the offer in favour of continuing its advocacy work through dialogue and civic engagement.

The group further expressed its support for collaborative security efforts in the region and emphasised the importance of strengthening public trust in governance through transparency and strategic communication.

NSPRN also called on relevant authorities to ensure that all civic actions remain peaceful and well-intentioned, in the interest of national unity and development.

Vanguard News