Ogun youth group pulls out of nationwide protest after meeting with Abiodun

Members of OYA with Ogun governor, Dapo Abiodun

Published By: Ayorinde Oluokun

By Adejoke Adeleye, Ogun

After a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun, some youths under the aegis of Ogun Youth Assembly (OYA) said they have
backed out from the proposed nationwide protest scheduled to begin on 1st of August 2024.

The leadership of OYA announced their decision in a press conference held at Ogun NUJ secretariat Okelewo, Abeokuta.

They therefore encouraged youths across the country to call for dialogue with government at all level instead of embarking on protests.

OYA Chairman, Barr Habib White while speaking at the press conference agreed that the nation is at a critical and crucial juncture and Nigerian youths, driven by widespread hunger, hardship, and abject poverty, are rightfully expressing their frustrations and should call for protest.

He said, “Currently, the average Nigerian is enduring unprecedented hardship characterised by severely diminished purchasing power, lack of basic amenities, and a shortened life expectancy. This crisis is closely linked to the nation’s economic state. As a demographic grappling with a bleak future and uncertainty, it is only natural for the youths to seek avenues for expression and redress. It is unjust to suppress their right to protest when they are being battered by such dire conditions.

While acknowledging that the dire straits affecting Nigerians can largely be traced to the policies of the Federal Government, we affirm that accountability spans all levels of government, including local authorities.
Going forward, we want to emphatically announce that the era of lethargic local government is over.

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“There will no longer be space for non-performing local government chairmen and ward councillors now that the nation has moved toward local government autonomy.

“We recognise the inherent right of all Nigerians to peaceful protest, yet we are also acutely aware of the potential for such protests to devolve into destructive actions, especially during times of heightened emotional intensity. It is crucial to pursue dialogue even as we seek change through peaceful demonstration..

“We held an engagement with the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, CON, on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024. We appreciate his willingness to engage further and we are encouraged by his commitment to continue these discussions. This dialogue is a positive step towards addressing the pressing issues faced by our youth.

“In light of this, we challenged the Ogun State Government to convene a series of public engagements with the youths across all Senatorial districts. This proposed engagement, that the Governor has since accepted is a necessary step to foster transparency and accountability, ensuring that future plans and stewardship are clearly communicated.

“We emphasised to him that this period demands more than temporary measures or palliative solutions. It is essential to implement a comprehensive, sustainable framework that empowers citizens and residents to secure honest, safer and better livelihoods.

“Government action must focus on significantly reducing the exorbitant cost of petroleum, enhancing electricity supply, and fostering a conducive environment for business growth. Additionally, increasing grant opportunities for small and medium enterprises and promoting meritocracy in all operations are crucial.

He however urge other youth groups and individuals interested in the dialogue to reach out to OYA for partnership to drive the state forward,through enterprise,creativity, innovation and advocacy.