In recent times, the focal point of discourse in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region, has revolved around the issue of protests, whether they should take place or not. The debate surrounding protests has intensified greatly in the past few weeks, with a significant amount of attention being directed towards this topic. From the beginning of July up until the 18th of the month, I reviewed numerous posts and comments amounting to several thousand across a minimum of five social media platforms. There emerged divergent positions between the youth and the Ulamas (Islamic Scholars) regarding the national protest slated to occur from August 1 to August 10, 2024. The young people articulated that engaging in protests serves as the most suitable avenue to express their discontent and frustration over the prevailing challenges confronting Nigerians. Conversely, the Islamic scholars articulated their opposition to protests in any form, contending that in most instances, it was not a viable recourse, and even if it were, there existed more effective methods to communicate grievances to the government. The discourse grew so intense that speculations, bordering on rumors, surfaced suggesting that the Islamic Scholars had been provided substantial sums of money, amounting to millions of Naira, to thwart the protest.
Nevertheless, a conspicuous observation is that even within the cohort of young individuals advocating for the protest in northern Nigeria, a substantial number reside outside the northern region or even beyond the national borders. Among the scant remaining proponents are fervent adherents who firmly believe that protestation is the sole mechanism capable of salvaging Nigeria and its populace. Just as I commenced drafting this discourse, I encountered a post authored by one of the zealous supporters.
The post, scripted in the Hausa language, conveyed the message “Ni Zan bar Izala Saboda Protest,” signifying his intention to disassociate from the Izala religious sect (a prominent and well-structured Islamic sect in Nigeria) due to their stand against the protest. His rationale for this decision stemmed from the fact that a significant number of Ulamas opposing the protest belonged to the Izala sect. Notably, adherents of other sects, such as Darika, have also voiced their disapproval of the protest.
The objective of my discussion here is to adopt a ‘Boko’ approach and employ intellectual perspectives to analyze protests to reconcile the divergent viewpoints. It is imperative to underscore that this endeavor does not seek to critique the standpoint of the erudite Ulamas, as they are deserving of utmost reverence. Rather, the primary goal is to scrutinize the historical trajectory of protests and evaluate the repercussions, be they positive or negative, associated with protests.
Therefore, the fundamental question that this discussion aims to address is: Do protests harbor negative aspects as posited by the Ulamas? To unravel the essence of this pivotal question, an exploration of the destructive and constructive functions of protests, alongside the underlying motivations propelling them, is imperative. The discourse will commence by looking into the historical evolution of protests and activism, subsequently dissecting the advantages and drawbacks of protests, culminating in an examination of the catalysts and roles of protests. By structuring the discussion in this manner, clarity will be fostered, enabling the reader to grasp the intricacies of the subject matter.
1.0 History of Protests and Activism
Protests have a deep-rooted and intricate history that has been influenced by a multitude of factors throughout different eras. The essence of protests has been interwoven into the fabric of our communal existence ever since human civilizations evolved into intricate societies. To furnish a precise explanation, according to Wikipedia, a protest (also known as a demonstration, remonstration, or remonstrance) is described as a public display of objection, disapproval, or dissent towards a specific idea or action, often of a political nature. Consequently, it can be asserted that a protest is a contentious endeavor carried out collectively in response to perceived injustices or unfair practices by those possessing legitimate political and economic authority. Its primary aim is to bring about social, political, and economic advancements. Conversely, it can also manifest in a destructive form. From the 19th century onwards, protests have taken on a standardized form through riots, strikes, and boycotts. Primarily, protests strive to achieve a more balanced allocation of privileges or resources, diminishing disparities among individuals or factions, altering or reinstating religious convictions or other cultural customs, and reverting cultural transformations. Initially, various forms of social protest emerged, both in the Western world and beyond, such as food riots protesting the scarcity or high cost of bread, tax uprisings like the recent one in Kenya, and religious demonstrations like the Kafanchan riots.
The Arab Spring, cited by Islamic scholars in Nigeria, marked a significant shift in the trend of protests against autocratic regimes, underscoring the transformative influence protests can wield at local, national, and global scales. By the 1980s, individual dissent progressed into organized protests, as evidenced by the events leading up to the revolutions of 1989 in Eastern Europe. While protest demonstrations in public spaces hold paramount importance, it is crucial to acknowledge that protests transcend these visible displays, embodying deeper sentiments and organizational backing.
Throughout history, the English populace has actively participated in protests as a means of resistance against oppression or as a channel for articulating fervor and indignation. In numerous societies, citizens have frequently taken to the streets to clamor for change, articulating political stances that might otherwise be stifled. The global chronicle of protests reveals that, in 40 years from 1980 to 2020, a staggering 1.2 million protest occurrences were recorded across 218 nations. In Africa, the most prevalent form of protest is exemplified by the Arab Spring, which has instigated numerous other protest movements spurred by various factors, notably economic performance.
Before 1980, the occurrence of protests and resistance was much more prevalent in the developed world compared to the developing world. Peasant uprisings emerged as a form of protest where individuals from rural areas rebelled against oppressive feudal systems, advocating for improved working conditions, land rights, and social equality. These movements not only challenged the prevailing power dynamics but also played a crucial role in instigating societal changes and transformations. An exemplary instance is the Dutch revolt against Spain, spanning from 1566 to 1609, which is often regarded as one of the initial ‘modern’ revolutions in Europe. This revolt was characterized by opposition to religious impositions, unjust tax policies, and efforts to consolidate state authority, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Dutch Republic and triggering economic transformations in the region. Similarly, the English Revolution that transpired from 1642 to 1649 represented a significant social upheaval driven by religious, political, and economic motives. This revolution culminated in the dethronement of King Charles I, the establishment of a republic, and the emergence of radical democratic factions such as the Levellers within the New Model Army.
The French Revolution that erupted in 1789 commenced as a series of protests that brought about profound alterations not only within France but across Europe. These protests ultimately led to the downfall of the monarchy, the ascendancy of the bourgeoisie, and the implementation of universal military conscription. Subsequently, the Revolution led to the Reign of Terror, the emergence of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the eventual formation of the Napoleonic Empire. In a similar vein, the Russian Revolution of 1917 led to the demise of the Tsarist regime, the establishment of a provisional government, and the subsequent rise of socialist councils that paved the way for the Bolshevik seizure of power. This revolution heralded the onset of Soviet governance and the establishment of the Soviet Union.
The Spanish Civil War, also recognized as the Spanish Revolution, commenced as a series of protests and culminated in several destructions and deaths, highlighting the clash between leftist factions and conservative military officials. This conflict underscored the intricate nature of ideological confrontations and the hurdles faced by revolutionary movements across Europe. Arguably, the most pivotal transformation was the economic revolution known as the Industrial Revolution. While the Industrial Revolution was not a singular social movement, and, did not in the conventional form be called as violent protest, it started as activism and served as a form of protest that revolutionized Europe through technological innovations, urbanization, and the ascendance of industrial capitalism. This epochal shift reshaped economic frameworks, social ties, and labor conditions, precipitating profound alterations in European societies.
In a nutshell, the historical landscape of global protests and activism underscores that while many of these protests started as peaceful demonstrations, they often escalated into violence and, at times, full-fledged wars. Essentially, except for the Industrial Revolution, the prevailing consensus is that protests concluded with loss of lives and property destruction, occasionally resulting in enduring societal ramifications.
2.0 Impact of Protests on Society
The preceding section discussed the historical progression of protests and activism, highlighting their tendency to culminate in violence and, in some instances, escalate into full-blown wars. In this section, the focus will shift towards examining the repercussions of these protests on society and the political framework. One of the primary outcomes of protests is their capacity to instigate Social Change. Through the course of history, protests have been instrumental in catalyzing social change by shedding light on injustices and advocating for reforms that elevate the status of marginalized people in society. An illustration of this is the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, which ultimately led to the abolishment of segregation and the enactment of legislation promoting equality. Moreover, protests often precipitate the implementation of Political Reforms as they exert pressure on governing bodies to redress the grievances of the populace. The Suffragette Movement in the UK serves as a poignant example wherein the fight for women’s suffrage culminated in the passage of the Representation of the People Act in 1918, which enfranchised women over the age of 30.
Furthermore, protests can catalyze the Empowerment of Marginalized Groups, providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and challenge oppressive structures. Additionally, they wield the potential to effect policy alterations by drawing attention to specific issues and compelling policymakers to enact change. For instance, the environmental movement has been pivotal in advocating for policies aimed at combating climate change and fostering sustainability, culminating initially in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and subsequently in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Likewise, protests can instigate cultural transformations by contesting prevailing societal norms and propelling novel ideas into the mainstream. The anti-war protests in the United States during the Vietnam War era not only influenced governmental policies but also altered public perceptions regarding matters of war and peace. Moreover, protests foster camaraderie and solidarity among individuals who share common grievances, engendering a sense of community and collective mobilization. An illustration can be observed in the Black Lives Matter movement, which has galvanized individuals to address systemic racism and police brutality in the US.
Again, protests serve as a mechanism for raising awareness about societal issues and educating the populace about prevailing injustices, thereby fostering enhanced dialogue and comprehension. The #ENDSARS movement, for instance, has brought to the forefront the issue of police harassment and brutality, sparking discussions on these matters across Nigeria. Predominantly, protests have played an indispensable role in shaping the historical trajectory of societies.
However, paradigms shifted in the 20th century, underscoring the significance of opportunity structures, available resources, and effective framing in comprehending protests and rendering them more efficacious while minimizing casualties. The modern era has advocated for evasive resistance from the onset of the 20th century. While overt protests often led to violent outcomes, evasive resistance through passive acts of civil disobedience, as championed by figures like Gandhi, the Dalai Lama, and Nelson Mandela, emerged as a potent means of challenging authority. There exist myriad forms of evasive resistance that entail minimal or no harm to lives or property, offering alternative avenues for effecting change.
3.0 A Comparison of ‘Peaceful’ Protests and Evasive Resistance
In this section, a concise overview of the primary distinctions between the two categories of activism that were previously discussed is explored. Evasive resistance pertains to the utilization of non-violent methods of protest to achieve societal transformations while minimizing or completely avoiding the loss of lives and properties. This form of resistance encompasses various strategies, including:
1. Civil Disobedience. Prominent leaders such as Mohandas Gandhi endorsed civil disobedience as a non-violent approach to protesting against oppressive governments. Nelson Mandela similarly adopted peaceful resistance tactics in challenging apartheid in South Africa.
2. Boycotts. Economic boycotts have been employed as a means to exert pressure on governments and institutions, such as the Indian independence movement’s boycott of British goods led by Gandhi.
3. Lectures, Sit at Home, and Media Campaigns. Activities aimed at generating knowledge, such as lectures and seminars, along with passive actions like sit-at-home protests, serve to raise awareness and gather support for various causes. Notable examples include the numerous boycotts organized by ASUU and sit-in protests like the Greensboro sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S.
4. Dialogue and Negotiation. Initiating dialogues and negotiations with authorities can lead to peaceful resolutions, as demonstrated by the negotiations between NLC, TUC, and the government on issues like the minimum wage. Mandela’s negotiations with the South African government and Chief Butheleze to prevent the partition of South Africa offer another illustration.
5. Symbolic Gestures. Symbolic actions such as hunger strikes, praying Qunutt, or wearing specific attire on designated days are employed to highlight injustices and rally support, as observed in movements like Black Lives Matter.
6. Legal Challenges. Contesting unjust laws or policies through legal avenues and court battles, akin to the legal struggles undertaken by civil rights activists in Nigeria, exemplified by organizations like SERAP.
7. Education and Advocacy. Public education and advocacy efforts play a crucial role in promoting change through non-violent means, as evidenced by campaigns against rape and Malala Yousafzai’s advocacy for girls’ education.
8. Community Organizing. Communities can unite to influence government decisions that may not align with local interests, such as communities in the Niger Delta collaborating to secure benefits from companies operating in their regions.
In contrast to the aforementioned civil disobedience, protests and demonstrations that frequently commence peacefully but escalate into violence can be cited as instances of violent protests. It is noteworthy that a majority of these protests commence as nonviolent or tranquil expressions of dissent but culminate in acts of destruction and regression.
Armed Struggle is sometimes resorted to by certain factions as a final option to press for their grievances. The MOSSOB, NDVF, the ESN, Boko Haram, and various other groups in Nigeria initiated protests and transitioned into armed conflicts driven by aspirations for liberation from oppression, only to end up in animosity and hostility. Another example is terrorism as exemplified by the wave of banditry and insurgency in northern Nigeria. Originating as disputes between farmers and herders, these criminal activities have evolved into a full-fledged conflict claiming lives, including those of military personnel, and resulting in the devastation of assets worth billions of dollars. The bandits have now adopted terrorist strategies to instill fear and attain political objectives.
Insurrections can incite rebellions and uprisings against authorities in pursuit of freedom, as illustrated by the Arab Spring movements across North Africa and the Middle East. Sabotage tactics are sometimes employed by protesters to underscore their grievances. The utilization of sabotage and property destruction as a mode of protest is prevalent in Nigeria and many other African nations, as evidenced by the recent upheaval in Kenya. Road blockades, arson attacks targeting government assets, expulsion of medical practitioners from hospitals, and other forms of sabotage inflict more harm on individuals than on the government. This type of protest was observed in the activities of radical groups during anti-colonial movements.
Urban Riots are a common occurrence in Nigeria and numerous other African countries, with protests predominantly concentrated in urban areas. These protests frequently escalate into riots, resulting in destruction and loss of life in cities worldwide. The recent protests in Kenya against excessive taxation led to the ruination of numerous businesses in Nairobi and other major urban centers.
Although frequently characterized as peaceful, protests often escalate into violence, a phenomenon attributed to various underlying factors. The transition from peaceful demonstrations to violent clashes is a complex process influenced by multiple variables. To elucidate the rationale behind the reluctance of knowledgeable Muslim clerics towards protests, an analysis of the mechanisms and causes leading to the eruption of violence during such events is essential. This examination will provide insight into the intricate dynamics that contribute to the transformation of ostensibly peaceful protests into chaotic and destructive situations.
4.0 Provocations for Violence
In this section, considerations regarding nonviolent protests, along with contexts for provocation into violence are discussed.
1. Moral Responsibility. In most cases, organizers of protests may foresee them culminating in violence, either on the part of the protesters or security forces, but choose to act because they consider it a moral responsibility to complete what they started. Often, protesters, like it is with the current call for Nigerian mass protest, do not have balanced emotional conditions and have heightened anger and frustrations, while security forces are detailed to bring law and order by whatever means possible. Starting a protest while most participants have uncontrolled emotions, leads to danger and may end in wars, at the least, these protests potentially provoke a violent response. For instance, during the 2011 protests in Egypt, activists knew that their actions could lead to violent crackdowns by security forces and an uncontrolled public. While they aimed to challenge the regime, the violent response from authorities resulted in significant casualties, raising questions about the moral responsibility of the organizers.
2. Justification of Risk. Although, in some instances, organizers and protesters may understand the gravity of the protests, they regard the reason for protesting as significant enough to justify the risks involved. For example, the ‘Ali Must Go’ protests in the 1970s in Nigeria, sought to address the high cost of education. Protesters accepted the risk of violent police responses, believing that the severe injustice of educational inequality justified their actions. Conversely, authorities perceived the protests as a threat, leading to security and consequently violent clashes.
3. Disproportionate Response. Protesters may anticipate a disproportionate response from authorities but proceed to highlight injustice. In Nigeria, the #EndSARS protests against police brutality in 2020 saw demonstrators aware that their actions could provoke violent responses from law enforcement. The subsequent violent crackdown by the police, including shootings at the Lekki Toll Gate, was widely condemned as excessive and unjustified.
4. Publicity and Awareness. Protesters often aim to draw attention to their cause, knowing that their actions may incite violence from the state. In Zimbabwe, the protests against President Robert Mugabe’s regime in 2016 were intended to highlight economic mismanagement. Activists were aware that their actions could provoke a violent response, which ultimately did occur, drawing international attention to their plight.
5. Culpability of Protesters. In many cases, the protesters became vulnerable to political actors who capitalized on their vulnerability to attain political points. In Kenya, during the 2007-2008 post-election violence, some opposition leaders encouraged protests despite knowing the potential for violent backlash. Similarly, between 2012 and 2015, several protests were led by opposition politicians in Nigeria, who gained power riding on the back of the vulnerability of the young protesters.
6. In several African nations, the role of the state has been implicated in creating circumstances that have led to widespread protests. When citizens find legitimate reasons to voice their grievances, and these concerns are not adequately addressed by the government, it can significantly impact the ethical evaluation of the protesters’ actions. An illustrative case is the Sudanese protests against the regime of Omar alBashir in 2019, which were primarily fueled by economic hardships and repressive tactics employed by the government. The harsh response of the authorities to peaceful demonstrations was widely perceived as unjust, thereby underscoring the role of the state in exacerbating tensions within the society. Similarly, in Nigeria, the ENDSARS protest emerged due to the government’s failure to promptly address instances of police brutality.
7. Protesters often have the intention of provoking a reaction to draw attention to injustices and end up inciting violence. However, unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to unintended violent outcomes. For instance, following the killing of musician Hachalu Hundessa in Ethiopia in 2020, protests were initially aimed at shedding light on ethnic injustices. Nevertheless, criminal elements within the society took advantage of the situation, resulting in widespread unrest and violence, deviating from the protesters’ initial objectives.
8. In some cases, protest organizers and participants may not anticipate violence but inadvertently find themselves in violent confrontations, as nonviolent actions can be perceived as provocations by certain groups, especially those not aligned with the protest movement. Consequently, what may have started as a ‘peaceful’ protest could transform into a situation of entrapment, particularly if viewed as targeting a specific group. For example, the Anglophone protests in Cameroon have been construed as separatist movements against the Francophone region, leading to heightened tensions. Similarly, activists like the Ogonis in Nigeria have faced accusations of provocation towards the government, resulting in severe crackdowns that are often deemed disproportionate responses to their peaceful protests.
9. Instances where seemingly nonviolent protests escalate into violent encounters can significantly impact public opinion and shape international responses. A pertinent illustration is the 2017 demonstrations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which were primarily directed against President Joseph Kabila’s prolonged stay in power. The government’s violent crackdown on protesters and the reciprocal provocations between the two parties galvanized global support for the demonstrators and intensified scrutiny of the government’s actions.
These instances highlight the complex and detailed process involved in assessing the behaviors and intentions of demonstrators and government officials during peaceful protests, especially in the setting of African and developing countries. Within this framework, it is crucial to look into the reasons behind the provocations from both the protesters and the security forces (or the government), as various elements contribute to escalating tensions. The next section closely examines some of these factors that play a role in fueling provocations between the opposing sides.
5.0 Factors That Contribute to Protests Escalating to Violence
Having deliberated on provocations that lead ‘peaceful protests’ to violent ones, this section aims to delineate several pivotal factors contributing to the escalation of ‘peaceful’ protests to violent ones through the utilization of one or a fusion of the aforementioned provocations.
1. The spontaneity of demonstrations often characterizes most ‘peaceful protests’, rendering them devoid of designated leaders to regulate their course. A lack of leadership within an organization typically results in a state of chaos. Thus, when protests commence without clear leadership, they are more susceptible to descending into chaos and violence. A notable instance of this phenomenon unfolded during the Arab Spring protests in Egypt back in 2011, which erupted spontaneously and eventually spiraled into violent clashes.
2. The commencement of protests frequently triggers a halt in the supply of goods to markets, leading to scarcity and consequent price hikes. Consequently, prices soar when essential commodities become scarce or individuals lack the financial means to procure them. This scarcity-induced situation amplifies the populace’s frustration, extending even to those who were not initially part of the protest. The urgency surrounding necessities can impel individuals to turn to violent measures. For instance, the protests in Tunisia in 2011 were partly instigated by escalating food prices, culminating in violent confrontations.
3. If demonstrators perceive non-violent tactics as ineffective in achieving their desired objectives, they may resort to violence. A case in point is the transformation of the Isaac Boro resistance movement in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region into a violent struggle.
4. Organized protests are typically characterized by the presence of leaders capable of managing the situation effectively. However, in the absence of leadership or in scenarios where leaders fail to exert control, protests are susceptible to evolving into violent ones. Despite the robust leadership exhibited during protests in South Africa during the liberation struggle, some instances saw protests evolve into spontaneous outbreaks, resulting in riots.
5. Government mishandling of situations or heavy-handed responses by authorities frequently serve as triggers for violence among demonstrators. For instance, the 2013 protests in Egypt against President Morsi escalated into violence following the deployment of force by the police against the protesters.
6. Divergences between urban and rural settings can significantly influence the dynamics of protests. While urban protests may benefit from greater resources and participation, rural protests can unfold in more secluded environments, fostering conditions ripe for violent outbursts stemming from mounting frustration. Notably, numerous protests in Nigeria exhibited peaceful characteristics in urban centers but transmuted into violence in rural locales. The Kafanchan riots, for instance, escalated into lethal conflicts in most Muslim rural areas in northern Nigeria. Similarly, a higher number of Muslim casualties were recorded in rural regions of India compared to urban areas. Moreover, protests in urban settings tend to escalate more rapidly than those in rural areas. For instance, protests in urban centers like Nairobi, Kenya, often garner more visibility and have the propensity to escalate swiftly in contrast to rural protests.
7. Extended durations of protests can instigate fatigue and impatience among participants, heightening the likelihood of violence. This phenomenon is exemplified by the Sudan protests against President Bashir, where prolonged demonstrations eventually culminated in violent clashes as patience wore thin.
8. Poor economic conditions have the potential to escalate tensions and result in violence during protests due to heightened dissatisfaction among the populace. An illustrative case of this phenomenon unfolded during the 2019 protests in Algeria, which were predominantly fueled by economic grievances against President Bouteflika, culminating in violent clashes between protesters and security forces. The socioeconomic landscape can significantly impact the dynamics of protests, underscoring the intricate relationship between economic factors and civil unrest.
9. The rapid dissemination of information, often characterized by misinformation, through social media platforms can swiftly mobilize individuals and precipitate violent outcomes during protests. This was starkly evident in Nigeria during the #EndSARS protests, where social media played a pivotal role in rapidly galvanizing protesters against police brutality, ultimately escalating the demonstrations into widespread violence. The influence wielded by social media in shaping the trajectory of protests underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of its impact on contemporary social movements.
10. Protests that touch on sensitive ethnic or religious issues in countries marked by diverse cultural landscapes, such as Nigeria, have the propensity to swiftly devolve into violent confrontations. The historical backdrop of Nigeria exemplifies this, as the 1966 coup morphed into a religious and ethnic conflict, resulting in a devastating civil war that claimed millions of lives. Similarly, the post-election violence in Kenya in 2007-2008 was exacerbated by deep-seated ethnic tensions that were inflamed during protests, underscoring the volatile nature of protests intertwined with ethnic and religious fault lines.
11. The role of external influences in fomenting violent protests cannot be understated, as foreign interventions or support for specific factions can exacerbate tensions and propel protests toward violent outcomes. The Libyan civil war serves as a poignant illustration of this, where the involvement of foreign powers significantly escalated protests into a full-fledged violent conflict, highlighting the intricate interplay between external factors and the escalation of civil unrest.
12. Sensationalized media coverage has the potential to inflame tensions and incite violence by portraying protests in a negative light, thereby influencing public perceptions and exacerbating the confrontational nature of demonstrations. The portrayal of protests in a sensationalized manner underscores the pivotal role that media plays in shaping public discourse and perceptions during times of civil unrest.
13. Historical grievances that have long simmered beneath the surface can resurface during protests, acting as potent catalysts for violence and exacerbating pre-existing tensions within society. The re-emergence of historical grievances during protests underscores the enduring impact of past injustices and unresolved conflicts on contemporary social movements and civil unrest.
14. The absence of coherent leadership structures during protests can result in chaos and violence, as seen during the protests in Libya amidst the Arab Spring, where a lack of unified leadership contributed to the escalation of violent outcomes. The significance of effective leadership in guiding and channeling the objectives of protests towards peaceful ends cannot be overstated, as leadership vacuums can engender disorder and tumult within protest movements.
15. The anticipation of government crackdowns can instill fear among protesters, prompting preemptive resort to violence as a means of self-defense or retaliation. In Ethiopia, protests against the government often spiraled into violence due to the pervasive fears of repression, underscoring how the specter of state violence can influence the behaviors and strategies adopted by protestors in their quest for social and political change.
16. Extremist groups have been known to exploit peaceful protests as a platform to further their violent agendas, infiltrating demonstrations and inciting violence in pursuit of their ideological objectives. In Nigeria, entities like Boko Haram and the ESN have capitalized on protests to advance their extremist narratives, highlighting the susceptibility of protests to manipulation by radical elements seeking to sow discord and chaos within society.
17. Miscommunication among protesters can engender misunderstandings and conflicts, leading to violent clashes with security forces, as witnessed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The breakdown in communication underscores the importance of effective coordination and dialogue within protest movements to prevent the escalation of tensions and violence during demonstrations.
18. The psychology of crowds can precipitate violent behaviors among individuals caught up in the collective fervor of protests, as evidenced by instances during the protests in Sudan where individuals resorted to violence under the sway of group emotions. The impact of psychological factors on the conduct of individuals within protest settings highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of crowd dynamics and their implications for the escalation of violence during civil unrest.
19. Political actors may exploit protests for their ends, manipulating demonstrations to further their agendas and incite violence against perceived opponents. Countries like Venezuela and Nigeria have witnessed instances where political factions instrumentalized protests as a means to sow discord and violence, underscoring the instrumentalization of social movements for political gains and power struggles.
20. When peaceful avenues for change are obstructed, individuals may feel compelled to resort to violence as a means of expressing dissent and effecting societal transformation. In Zimbabwe, the absence of viable political alternatives has catalyzed violent protests against the government, highlighting the consequences of systemic failures and political stagnation in precipitating violent civil unrest.
21. The presence of a small faction of individuals with a propensity for violence amidst a peaceful protest has the potential to disrupt the nonviolent essence of the demonstration, as these participants might instigate aggressive behaviors, consequently fueling the escalation of the protest. This phenomenon underscores the critical importance of maintaining a peaceful environment within protests to uphold their intended nonviolent nature.
22. Uncertainty or lack of clarity regarding the objectives of a protest can significantly contribute to the transformation of initially nonviolent demonstrations into violent clashes. Articulating clear and well-defined goals for a protest is essential in ensuring the preservation of nonviolent discipline and minimizing the likelihood of escalation into violence.
23. Emotional priming and framing strategies employed within the context of a protest can create circumstances that are conducive to spontaneous occurrences leading to violent escalations. The emotional state of individuals involved in the protest setting can have a profound impact on their behaviors, both at an individual and collective level, influencing the overall peaceful character of the protests.
24. The spatial dynamics of a protest, encompassing elements such as the physical layout and distribution of the crowd, can also play a pivotal role in the escalation of peaceful demonstrations towards violence. The spatial configuration of a protest can influence the interactions between the protestors and the authorities, potentially setting the stage for violent outcomes to unfold.
25. The presence of hierarchical structures or multiple organizers within protest groups can introduce complexities that influence the dynamics of demonstrations. Power differentials and struggles for leadership within these groups can breed tensions that have the potential to escalate protests into violent altercations.
26. Theoretical perspectives on social control emphasize the mechanisms through which groups can regulate the behavior of members to prevent deviations from established norms. Weaknesses or ineffectiveness in social control mechanisms can heighten the risk of peaceful protests devolving into violence due to a lack of constraints on potentially delinquent individuals.
These multifaceted factors underscore the intricate interplay of social, economic, and political dynamics that underlie the escalation of peaceful protests into violence, particularly within the context of developing nations. The complexities involved in understanding and addressing these factors highlight the challenges inherent in maintaining the nonviolent nature of protests and averting instances of escalation to violence.
The above paragraphs have listed and explained various factors that can lead to peaceful protests escalating into violent ones, either independently or when combined with other variables. Similar to warfare, violent protests and riots serve numerous destructive purposes within a society. The next section will delve into a detailed examination of some of these functions, shedding light on their implications and consequences.
6.0 Destructive Functions of Protests
Several fundamental considerations that should be taken into account whenever protests are being contemplated are of utmost importance. These considerations revolve around the core disruptive functions of protests, particularly those that are uncontrolled.
Primarily, protests possess the ability to disturb the harmony and stability of society, potentially leading to unrest and conflicts. Such actions can challenge long-standing traditional beliefs and values, thereby creating a sense of tension and resistance within the society. Furthermore, protests have the potential to fuel radical behaviors and extremism, consequently posing significant risks to public safety and order. An illustrative instance of this is evident in the case of the August 2024 protest advocates in northern Nigeria who have already started asking for severe actions against certain Muslim clerics. In response, these clerics have made declarations to defend themselves, at times even displaying weapons on their sermon platforms.
The occurrence of protests, as seen in Nigeria, tends to isolate individuals or groups who do not align with the objectives of the protest, thus fostering division and polarization within society. A pertinent example is the scenario of an NLC strike where non-participating workers are forcibly driven from their workplaces.
Moreover, protests can lead to direct clashes with authorities, often resulting in violence and repression. Such encounters may give rise to negative perceptions and stereotypes, thereby diminishing the effectiveness of the protest’s intended message and objectives. Additionally, protests have the potential to trigger economic disruptions and instability, which can significantly impact businesses and livelihoods. These disruptions may further exacerbate tensions between various social groups, intensifying pre-existing conflicts and widening societal rifts.
Likewise, protests can sow seeds of chaos and disorder, ultimately eroding social cohesion and trust. This may culminate in legal ramifications and consequences for the participants involved, subsequently influencing their reputations and prospects.
7.0 Examples of Protests that Escalate to Violence
Peaceful demonstrations that escalate to violence can stem from a variety of factors, including individual impatience, ethical considerations, and environmental threats. Within this segment, instances of certain protests that originated as ‘peaceful’ but ended in violent outcomes are briefly outlined.
1. Demonstrations within the Global Justice Movement. Peaceful protests within the Global Justice Movement in North America and Europe are typically nonviolent methods of making contentious claims. To illustrate, a peaceful protest addressing globalization concerns in the United States turned violent due to clashes between protesters and law enforcement, resulting in deaths and injuries.
2. Protests against War. Peaceful demonstrations opposing war often evolve into violent conflicts. For example, a peaceful march against war in Germany led to confrontations between protesters and police, culminating in physical altercations and injuries.
3. Environmental Demonstrations. Peaceful environmental protests also have the potential to become violent. For instance, a demonstration advocating for environmental preservation in the United States witnessed clashes between protesters and authorities, resulting in deaths, injuries, and property damage.
4. Civil Rights Movements. Even peaceful civil rights protests have been susceptible to escalating into violent clashes. For instance, a peaceful march advocating for equal rights in Germany turned violent due to clashes between protesters and law enforcement, resulting in deaths, injuries and arrests.
5. Labor Rights Protests. In countries like Nigeria and various African nations, peaceful labor protests often escalate into violence and destruction. Another specific instance involves a protest by workers demanding fair wages in the United States, where clashes with police led to injuries and arrests.
6. Opposition to Nuclear Power. Peaceful protests against nuclear power facilities have, at times, turned into violent clashes. For instance, a demonstration against a nuclear power plant in Germany resulted in clashes between protesters and authorities, leading to fatalities, injuries, and arrests.
7. Advocacy for Social Justice. Peaceful social justice rallies have also witnessed escalations into violence. An example includes a peaceful rally advocating for equality in the USA, which turned violent following clashes between protesters and law enforcement, resulting in injuries and arrests.
8. Campaigns for Human Rights. Peaceful protests in support of human rights have, in certain cases, escalated to violence. For instance, a demonstration backing human rights in Germany resulted in clashes between protesters and police, leading to injuries and arrests.
The aforementioned instances highlight some of the ‘peaceful protests’ that transitioned into violence, with numerous other examples available for discussion.
8.0 Conclusion
The title of this write-up, “Yes, the Dark Sides of Protests are Unintended
Consequences, Including Violence,” encapsulates the complex reality surrounding civil protests. While protests are often seen as a powerful tool for social change, they can inadvertently lead to violence and unrest, particularly when miscommunication, external influences, or radical elements come into play. Young people, who are often at the forefront of these protests, must recognize the potential for unintended consequences and consider alternative avenues for expressing their grievances. By opting for nonviolent methods of advocacy, they can effectively communicate their concerns without risking the escalation of tensions that can accompany protests.
To navigate the challenges associated with protests and to foster a more constructive dialogue with authorities, the following recommendations are proposed as viable alternatives:
1. Community Dialogues: Organize forums and discussions within communities to address grievances and foster understanding between different societal groups.
2. Petition Campaigns: Utilize petitions to gather support for specific issues, allowing for a formal presentation of demands to government officials.
3. Social Media Advocacy: Leverage social media platforms to raise awareness and mobilize support for causes without the need for physical gatherings.
4. Collaborative Workshops: Host workshops that bring together stakeholders, including government representatives, to collaboratively develop solutions to pressing issues.
5. Artistic Expression: Encourage the use of art, music, and performance as a means of conveying messages and raising awareness about social injustices.
6. Educational Campaigns: Implement educational initiatives that inform the public about specific issues, fostering a more informed citizenry that can advocate for change.
7. Engagement with Local Leaders: Build relationships with local leaders and influencers who can advocate on behalf of the community’s concerns in a constructive manner.
8. Volunteering and Community Service: Promote active participation in community service projects that address local issues, demonstrating commitment to positive change.
9. Policy Advocacy: Engage in lobbying efforts to influence policy changes through established channels, ensuring that voices are heard in legislative processes.
10. Conflict Resolution Training: Provide training in conflict resolution and negotiation skills to empower young people to address disputes and grievances peacefully.
By embracing these alternatives, young people can channel their energy and passion into constructive actions that promote dialogue and understanding, ultimately leading to meaningful change without the risks associated with protests. In doing so, they can help mitigate the dark sides of protests and foster a more peaceful and collaborative society.
