Politics

Youth leader calls for end to nationwide protest, urges dialogue

Oladele John Nihi, Vice President of the Pan-African Youth Union, West Africa, has appealed to #EndBadGovernance protesters to end their demonstrations and engage in dialogue with the government.

This was contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Sunday.

Nihi acknowledged the frustrations that led to the protests but emphasised the need for continued dialogue to address the issues.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to dialogue and encouraged all stakeholders to engage constructively.

The youth leader expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during the protests and condemned the violence and looting that has occurred.

In response, Nihi’s office is organising a 2-day National Youth Dialogue – Nigeria, scheduled for October 1-2, 2024. The event aims to provide a platform for young people to share ideas and engage in dialogue.

Nihi urged protesters to take advantage of this initiative and join a peaceful and respectful conversation about the future of Nigeria, emphasising the need to work together towards a more inclusive and prosperous country.

Full statement below;

As the Vice President, West Africa, Pan-African Youth Union, I urge the #EndBadGovernance protesters across Nigeria to heed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appeal and bring an end to the protests. While I acknowledge the frustrations and grievances that led to the protests, I firmly believe that continued dialogue and engagement are essential in addressing the issues at hand.

The President’s address this morning demonstrates a willingness to listen and work towards solutions. I commend this commitment to dialogue and encourage all stakeholders to engage constructively.

My deepest condolences go out to the families of those who have lost their lives during the protests. The past three days have seen not only the loss of lives but also a turn towards violence and the looting of public and private properties in some parts of the country. Unfortunately, opportunistic elements are now exploiting the protest to cause widespread destruction and suffering, undermining the original purpose of the protests.

In light of this, my office, in conjunction with the Forum of Special Advisers on Youth to Governors in Nigeria, is organising a 2-day National Youth Dialogue – Nigeria, scheduled for October 1-2, 2024. This platform will provide a constructive space for young people to share ideas, engage in dialogue, and chart a way forward.

I encourage all protesters to take advantage of this initiative and join us in a peaceful and respectful conversation about the future of our country. Let us work together towards a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.

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