We’re ready for dialogue – Youth group tells Ogun govt

As the proposed August 1 nationwide protest continues to spark controversies, a group of youths in Ogun State said it is unjust to suppress the right to protest when being battered by dire conditions.

The group, under the auspices of the Ogun Youths Assembly, OYA, stated that it is only natural for Nigerians to voice concerns about widespread hunger, hardship, and abject poverty.

OYA chairman Habib Whyte spoke on Friday in a press conference held in Abeokuta.

Whyte clarified that although the federal government’s policies are to blame for the economic hardships faced by Nigerians, accountability extends to all governmental levels, including local authorities.

He, however, disclosed that the group has taken a step above protest by calling for an engagement with the state governor, Dapo Abiodun.

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“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 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.

“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.

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

The OYA chairman stated that the engagement was necessary to foster transparency and accountability, ensuring that plans and stewardship are communicated.

“We will not be part of the people that will be on the street for protest because our own has gone above protest because we have called for dialogue and we are ready for dialogue,” he said.