The Oyo State Government, through the State Agency for Youth Development, held a meeting with about 80 youth associations on Monday.
The meeting took place at the House of Chiefs, State Secretariat, in Ibadan.
The government officials expressed concerns that the planned protest might be taken over by people with hidden agendas. They urged the youth to ensure their protest is organized, peaceful, and transparent.
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin, said, “We want only peaceful protests that do not destroy property or harm lives.”
Recalling the issues from the #EndSARS protest in 2020, Ogundoyin emphasized the need for identifiable leaders for the protest. He promised that security agencies would be directed to protect peaceful protesters and prevent any disruption.
During the meeting, representatives from various youth groups explained that hunger and economic hardship were driving their desire to protest. They asked security personnel to act with respect and coordination during the demonstration.
The youth also criticized government officials for a lack of accountability, corruption, and failure to deliver on campaign promises. They highlighted issues like flamboyant lifestyles and the mishandling of aid.
Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives, Titilope Gbadamosi, responded, stating that “The president is working tirelessly to address the issues of hunger and hardship in the country.”
The meeting aimed to ensure that any upcoming protest is conducted in a manner that maintains public safety and order.
