In an unexpected turn of events, the Kaduna State government has reportedly gifted smartphones and N100,000 each to the 39 protesters who were detained during recent #EndGovernance demonstrations. The move has sparked mixed reactions across the state and online, with some hailing it as a gesture of goodwill, while others question the timing and underlying motives.
The protesters, who had been part of the #EndGovernance movement—an initiative calling for political reforms and an end to perceived misgovernance—were detained last month following large-scale protests that rocked the state capital, Kaduna City. The movement, which gained traction on social media, has been critical of the current administration's handling of governance, security, and economic challenges in the region.
According to sources close to the state government, the gifts were distributed to the detainees after their release from custody. Each of the 39 protesters received a new smartphone along with N100,000 in cash. The gifts were reportedly presented by government officials, who described the gesture as an attempt to "support the empowerment and well-being of the youth" and to "encourage peaceful dialogue in the future."
The move comes just days after the release of the protesters, many of whom had been held for weeks under charges of inciting violence and disturbing the peace. While the government did not provide an official statement at the time of their release, the gift of smartphones and cash has raised eyebrows.
Critics have expressed skepticism, questioning whether the gift is an attempt to pacify the protesters or a calculated move to garner favor among the youth ahead of upcoming elections. "It’s hard to ignore the timing of this," said political analyst Bola Ahmed. "This looks like a political maneuver, aimed at turning the tide in the government’s favor after months of public discontent. They’re essentially buying goodwill.”
On the other hand, some supporters of the protesters have expressed appreciation for the gesture, viewing it as an acknowledgment of the protesters’ right to express their concerns. "While the protests were about holding the government accountable, this action can be seen as a step toward engagement and reconciliation," said Adamu Musa, a local activist. "The smartphones could be seen as tools to further their cause, enabling them to stay connected and continue raising awareness about the issues they care about."
However, there has been no indication from the state government that they will address the specific grievances raised by the #EndGovernance protesters, including calls for greater transparency, better infrastructure, and improved security.
The situation has stirred further debate on the role of social media in activism, particularly in Nigeria, where youth-driven movements have become a powerful tool for challenging political authority. The government’s gesture also raises questions about the way authorities handle public dissent, with many calling for more meaningful dialogue and reforms rather than symbolic actions.
As of now, neither the Kaduna State Governor nor his representatives have commented directly on the motivations behind the gifts. Meanwhile, the protesters remain divided on the gesture, with some expressing gratitude and others vowing to continue their advocacy for political change.
This development is expected to fuel ongoing discussions around the relationship between government and activism, especially as Nigeria approaches its next round of elections.
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