During a Special State Broadcast titled ‘Need to uphold peace during the August 1 planned nationwide protest,’ Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, urged Nigerians, particularly the people of the state, to avoid being manipulated by those seeking to cause chaos under the guise of fighting for the common man.
Oyebanji emphasized the need to maintain peace, pointing out the lingering impact of the 2020 EndSARS unrest on Ekiti’s development trajectory, cautioning against actions that could reverse progress towards prosperity. He reassured residents to carry on with their daily routines without fear or hesitation.
The governor affirmed a commitment to safeguard the state from disruptions and reiterated that no one would be allowed to disrupt peace in the name of protests in Ekiti.
He stated, “We are determined to protect our state and maintain law and order. Security agencies will be vigilant to prevent any tarnishing of our reputation as a peaceful and progressive state.”
Appealing to parents, traditional leaders, and religious figures, Oyebanji urged them to dissuade youths from being influenced by those seeking to instigate violence during protests, as demonstrations could easily be hijacked by troublemakers. He highlighted the constitutional right to freedom of expression, emphasizing peaceful protest as the acceptable means of voicing grievances without infringing on the rights of others.
Concerning the economy, Oyebanji warned against resorting to violence, stressing the current efforts to revitalize the economy through fiscal and monetary measures. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the progress achieved, recalling the devastating consequences of the 2020 EndSARS protests, including significant damage to private and public assets.
Reflecting on the aftermath, Oyebanji lamented the destruction of vital infrastructures like silos and government facilities, noting the ongoing challenges in restoring these assets amidst resource constraints. He cautioned against a repeat of past events, stressing the long-lasting impact of destructive actions on the state’s economic foundations.