By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka in Abuja
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria, (FNYLAPPN), has postponed its planned Warning Protest scheduled for Wednesday, 5th August 2026, over the continued xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
In a press release signed on Wednesday by Hon. Comrade Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu, National Youth Leader of APGA and Chairman of FNYLAPPN, and Ozu Important, Publicity Secretary and National Youth Leader of PRP, the Forum said the decision followed an invitation from the Department of State Services, (DSS), on Tuesday, 4th August 2026.
According to the release, the DSS briefed the Forum on credible security intelligence indicating that other groups including the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, (IMN), and the Take It Back Movement/Revolution Now are also protesting on the same day. The Service advised that the date may not be suitable for a peaceful protest.
The DSS expressed fear that the protest could be infiltrated or hijacked by elements outside the Forum’s control, leading to a breakdown of law and order and shifting public blame to FNYLAPPN.
Following the briefing, the Forum’s leadership convened an emergency virtual meeting with members, many of whom had already travelled to Abuja in preparation for the protest. After deliberation, they unanimously resolved to postpone the action in the overriding interest of public safety and national peace.
“The Forum wishes to state unequivocally that we are a peaceful, law-abiding and responsible organisation,” the release stated, adding: “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 Forum also noted that the DSS briefed them on positive diplomatic and governmental efforts by the Federal Government to address the crisis and engage South African authorities. It appreciated members, civil society organisations, and patriotic Nigerians who prepared to participate, adding that the postponement does not amount to a withdrawal of its demands.
In conclusion, the Forum reiterated its demands that xenophobic attacks must end, victims must receive justice and compensation, and perpetrators must be held accountable. It said a new date for the protest will be announced if the crisis is not resolved, after further consultations with relevant stakeholders, and urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and law abiding.
