Youth Network Rejects Planned Protest In Lagos, Citing Political Motivation
The Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, representing youths from the five divisions of Lagos State, has firmly opposed the planned nationwide protest scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024. The group believes the protest is politically motivated and poses a threat to public order and infrastructure.
Speaking at a news conference on Sunday, the group’s leader, Mobolaji Ogundende, highlighted concerns stemming from the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which led to significant loss of life, looting, and widespread destruction of property in Lagos.
“Intelligence gathered so far revealed this planned protest is politically motivated and not in the interest of the peace-loving and hardworking Lagosians,” Ogundende stated.
The group emphasized the importance of dialogue with the government to address grievances, rather than resorting to protests that may serve political interests.
“Lagos Indigenous Youth Network rejects moves to destroy Lagos under the guise of protest,” Ogundende declared. He urged parents to advise their children against participating in the protest, recalling the extensive damage during the #EndSARS protests, which left many taxpayer-funded facilities in ruins and still unrepaired.
“We stand before you today to reflect on our progress as a state and express concern over the planned protest in Lagos State. While we acknowledge the fundamental right to protest, we believe it must be constructive and in the best interest of the people,” he said.
Ogundende reiterated that while constructive engagement with leaders is crucial, it should not become a platform for political tension and violence. He warned that the intelligence suggests the upcoming protest is not in the interest of Lagosians and urged unity to defend the city against potential destruction.
“We are coming together to defend #OurLagos against any possible destruction by agents of violence masquerading as lovers of the people. They have only one interest – their selfish interest,” he said.
The group highlighted several achievements of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, including paying above the N70,000 minimum wage, providing free healthcare to expectant women, subsidized education, and significant infrastructure projects like the Red Line and Blue Line rail, independent power projects, and the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
“This is a government that deserves our support to do more rather than fall victim to lies from naysayers. The government knows there’s so much work to be done, and it is doing extra work to tick all the boxes. We must work together as Lagosians – that is our spirit,” Ogundende concluded.
