At a historic press conference, the Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, comprising critical youth leaders and various youth bodies, declared their staunch opposition to any motives that threaten the peaceful co-existence of Lagos State residents. While acknowledging the fundamental right to protest, they emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability.
Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development in Lagos State, highlighted the potential dangers of protests. “Protest is a fundamental right,” Ogunlende said, “but we must ensure that it is constructive. Protests driven by selfish interests can lead to tension and violence.”
The Commissioner underscored the achievements of the Lagos State government, including the payment of the minimum wage, clearing pension backlogs, and providing free healthcare to expectant women. He also noted significant infrastructure projects such as the Red and Blue Line rail projects, independent power plants, and ongoing road construction.
Additionally, Ogunlende mentioned the successful implementation of the “OUNJE EKO” Sunday markets initiative, which slashed prices by 25 percent and reduced transport fares by the same margin. He highlighted the provision of grants to 20,000 residents to start businesses and the payment of bursaries to students in tertiary institutions.
Addressing parents, Ogunlende urged them to discourage their children from joining the protest, emphasizing that it is not in their best interest. He called for support for the government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, asserting their commitment to addressing youth needs and creating employment opportunities.
“We will stand for our Lagos. We will stand with our hardworking Governor. We will not allow another war in Lagos. This is our heritage, and we must preserve it. Lagos will remain a home to all of us,” Ogunlende concluded.
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly also addressed the youths, urging them to avoid manipulation by unknown individuals or groups. She encouraged strategic approaches to expressing grievances, rather than resorting to dramatic protests.
Mazi Leo Obasi, a resident of Lagos State, appealed to those planning to protest to embrace dialogue. “Lagos is a home for all,” Obasi said, “where people from diverse backgrounds come to settle, earn a living, and raise their families. Destructive protests will only harm the very place we call home.”
Obasi, who spends 362 days of the year in Lagos, emphasized the deep connection residents have with the state. He urged those with grievances to engage in dialogue with the Governor and President, who are willing to listen. “There is no progress in destruction,” Obasi noted. “I call on whoever is aggrieved to come forward for dialogue. They will listen.”
Okununga Opeyemi, another concerned resident, echoed these sentiments. She cited the destructive aftermath of previous protests and emphasized that Lagos is their home. Opeyemi referenced a verse from the Qur’an, stating, “after every hardship, there will be ease,” urging youths to have faith in the current administration.
“Let’s believe in this administration so that we can all live happily,” Opeyemi said. “Protest is not what we want now. We just want peace in Lagos State.”
