The Coastal Dwellers Association of West Africa has faulted reports that a Niger Delta freedom fighter, Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, is against the #EndBadGovernance protests across the country.

Before the commencement of the protests, Dokubo-Asari was reported to have warned the organizers not to come to the Niger Delta, noting that the agenda of those behind the protest did not capture the problems of the people of the region.

However, in a statement made available to journalists, President of the Coastal Dwellers Association of West Africa, Arch Tom Inko-Tariah, noted that a speech made by Dokubo-Asari at a Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, event in Port Harcourt was edited out of context to suggest that the activist was against the protests staged by aggrieved Nigerians.

According to Inko-Tariah, reports suggesting that Dokubo-Asari, a prominent advocate for minority rights in the Niger Delta, is against the protest, are untrue.

According to him, “Dokubo-Asari, known for his lifelong dedication to fighting for the people, cannot change at this stage of his life.”

Inko-Tariah highlighted Dokubo-Asari’s commitment to standing by the people and fighting for justice and equality throughout his career.

He noted that while Dokubo-Asari may have expressed concerns about the potential for violence and chaos during the protests, his stance is rooted in a desire to uphold democratic principles and prevent any destabilization of the country.

“Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari has always been a champion for the rights of the marginalized communities in the Niger Delta and beyond. His focus has been on addressing systemic injustices and promoting peaceful resolutions to grievances.

“It is crucial to understand that his concerns lie not with the legitimate grievances of the protesters but with the dangers of anarchy and attempts to subvert the democratic process through unconstitutional means,” Inko-Tariah added.