***Warns against the danger of violent protest
A group under the aegies of Restore Hope for the Boy Child Initiative has lend its voice to the growing hardship and the proposed protest in the nation as it called
This is coming against the background of the economic situation in the country that has continued to deteriorate, has left many individuals and families struggling to make ends meet.
The Executive Director of the group, Dr. Babatunde Kayode in statement issued in Abuja said he is aware of the frustration and anger among the youth, particularly the Boy Child, who feel neglected by society and are affected by the rising cost of food and high living standards, leading to hunger and hopelessness.
“While we understand the complexities of economic challenges, we can not ignore the role of corruption and lack of sacrifice on the part of our political leaders.
However, he said most protests that started as peaceful ended up being high jacked and turned into a disaster with monumetal destruction at the end as seen in Libya, Rwanda, and recently Kenya.
“Therefore, destructive protests are not the solution.”
Instead of the protest and the attendant negative outcomes he called on the government to engage with the youth in open and inclusive dialogue to address concerns and proffer solutions.
He also advocate for a reduction in the size of the over-bloated government and the need to address corruption and ensure accountability among public officials.
He said there is need to encourage the consumption of locally made products to cut down on foreign exchange as genuine and visible sacrifices on the part of our political leaders and government officials.
He also called for concerted efforts to be made the area of job creation.
“We urge young people to reconsider participating in protests that may put their safety and future at risk. They should rather explore alternative and constructive channels to express their concerns and grievances.
“Therefore, we now call on stakeholders, including civil societies, the private sector, and individuals, to appeal to our youth to remain calm and shun the proposed protest between 1st to 10th August 2024, giving the government enough time to attend to their grievances.
“We acknowledge the need for urgent intervention on the part of the government while believing that protest is a constitutional right of every citizen under democracy.
