Lagos youths, under the Lagos Indigenous Youth Network (LIYN), have rejected the planned hunger protest scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024. They fear the protest could lead to destruction similar to the #EndSARS events.
At a press conference on Sunday, youth leaders from the five divisions of Lagos gathered at the statue of the Three Wise Men in Ikeja to voice their concerns. They believe the protest has political motivations rather than genuine concern for public interest.
Mobolaji Ogunlende, a leader in LIYN, spoke for the group, highlighting that intelligence reports suggest the protest is politically driven.
“We are not against citizens constructively engaging their leaders when necessary. However, when such engagement turns into a platform for tension and warmongering, potentially aimed at settling political scores, it is time to exercise caution. This is what we are doing today,” he said.
Ogunlende stressed that the protest does not align with the interests of peace-loving and hardworking Lagosians.
“We do not support it. We say no to any protest in whatever guise or disguise. We are coming together to defend #OurLagos against any possible destruction by agents of violence masquerading as supporters of the people. Their only interest is their selfish interest,” he stated.
The group called on all Lagosians, especially parents, to discourage their children from participating in the protest. They urged those behind the protest to reconsider their actions.
“Lagos is working, and we stand with our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He will address all grievances and ensure that all is well in our dear country, Nigeria,” Ogunlende asserted.
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He noted that while citizens have the right to protest, there is no justification for Lagos State to be the focal point of such politically motivated protests aimed at destroying property. Ogunlende emphasized that Lagos should be encouraged to remain a pacesetter in the country.
“Lagos does not owe workers’ salaries. Lagos does not owe pensioners. The only state to have cleared all pension backlog. Lagos does not discriminate between indigenes and non-indigenes. Its hospitality is second to none. Lagos provides free healthcare to expectant women. Lagos provides subsidized education to all residents, regardless of ethnicity,” he said.