Renowned activist and musician, Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has rallied Nigerian youths to stand firm in their planned nationwide protests against governance issues.
Charly Boy emphasized that those in positions of power should welcome scrutiny and dissent, rather than suppress it, if they are truly confident in their honesty.
In a recent post on his social media platform, Charly Boy refuted a report advising Lagos residents to ignore the protests due to perceived efforts by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
Dismissing the advice, Charly Boy insinuated that attempts to mute opposing voices and evade accountability indicate hidden agendas among the ruling class.
He remarked: “A Season of Lies, Deception, Propaganda, and the more you search… If those in power are truly honest, they should welcome critique and protest, not stifle it.”
“However, when they opt for suppression and avoidance, it exposes their misdeeds. The ‘skeletons/cemeteries in their cupboard’ reveal their corruption and misuse of authority,” he added.
“In a genuine democracy, governments must operate transparently and be accountable to the populace. They should embrace criticism and engage in open discussions, even when it’s uncomfortable.
“By doing so, they can earn trust and exhibit their dedication to public service. Yet, concealing behind secrecy and coercion signifies guilt and a breach of trust with the people.”
Ending on a strong note, Charly Boy urged Nigerian youths to stand their ground and stated, “If they don’t fear us, they will never respect us. Nonsense. Their reckoning will come.”