PEACEFUL DIALOGUE OVER PROTEST - LAGOS INDIGENOUS YOUTHS WARN

Peaceful Dialogue Over Protest - Lagos Indigenous Youths Warn Against Planned 'Nation-wide Protest'

As tensions rise over a planned protest in Lagos, the Indigenous Youth Network has issued a stern warning against what they term as "warmongering" and "violent rhetoric" by some groups planning a 'Hunger Protest.' The youth group cautioned troublemakers to avoid Lagos, accusing them of intending to unleash terror under the guise of protest.

  

Member, Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, Kehinde Motajo; Comrade Ayodele Adewale; Leader, Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, Mobolaji Ogunlende; Head, Lagos Indigenous Youth Network - Ikeja, Prince Temitope Oshoja and member, Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, Dr. Seriki Muritala 

At a press briefing held on Sunday at the “Three Wise Men” statue along Olowopopo Way in Ikeja, the group, comprising young people from all five traditional divisions of Lagos, expressed their concerns. Led by Mobolaji Ogunlende from Badagry Division, they emphasized their readiness to defend Lagos against any politically motivated violence.

“We acknowledge the right to protest but it must be constructive and in the people's best interest,” Ogunlende stated. He stressed that the planned protest appeared politically driven, urging youths to avoid joining forces that aim to destabilize the state under the pretext of demonstrations.

Highlighting the state’s achievements, Ogunlende listed various government initiatives that have benefited Lagosians, such as above-minimum wage payments, prompt pension disbursements, and free healthcare for expectant mothers. He noted the successful completion of infrastructure projects like the Red Line and Blue Line rail systems, independent power projects, and the Lekki Free Trade Zone.

Ogunlende recalled the destructive violence during the EndSARS protests in 2020, emphasizing that Lagos is still recovering from the damage. He urged that state resources be used productively rather than for rebuilding destroyed properties.

“Lagos deserves the support of its youth to do more,” he concluded, calling for unity and collaboration to maintain a safe environment for investment and development.

The press conference featured key members of the Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, including Kehinde Motajo, Comrade Ayodele Adewale, Prince Temitope Oshoja, and Dr. Seriki Muritala, who echoed Ogunlende’s sentiments and reiterated their commitment to peaceful dialogue over violent protests.

The group’s message is clear: while peaceful protest is a fundamental right, any attempt to incite violence in Lagos will be met with strong resistance from its youth.