An influential group of leaders in Oyo State has reached out to the youth in the region, urging them to reconsider their planned protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which was set to take place from August 1 to 10.
The leaders, all former federal lawmakers, engaged in a meeting with youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress, student leaders, and other key stakeholders on Wednesday at the party’s permanent secretariat in Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Notable figures present at the meeting included Kolawole Raji, Muraina Ajibola, Dapo Lam Adesina, Sunday Adepoju, and Segun Odebunmi.
The objective of the meeting was to enlighten APC members about the potential negative consequences of the planned protest and to deliberate on the current state of the nation.
Raji, who addressed journalists post-meeting, emphasized the risks associated with the proposed protest and underscored the remarkable achievements of Tinubu’s government.
He highlighted initiatives such as the granting of Local Government autonomy to manage funds independently, leading to improved governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.
Raji also mentioned the implementation of a comprehensive interest-free student loan scheme by the administration, along with a focus on infrastructural development through major projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, Badagry-Sokoto Expressway, and various other road projects nationwide.
He expressed that the extensive rehabilitation of the national rail network would enhance connectivity, stimulate economic activities, and generate numerous employment opportunities for the youth.
“In a bid to tackle the escalating cost of living and enhance the quality of life for Nigerian workers, President Tinubu’s administration has raised the national minimum wage to N70,000. This increase aims to bolster workers’ purchasing power and promote a more equitable distribution of wealth.
“Initiatives like the Youth Farm Initiative and the Agricultural Enhancement Programme have equipped young farmers with training, funding, and resources, contributing to the nation’s agricultural evolution and food security, among other benefits,” he remarked.
Raji acknowledged the substantial challenges confronting Tinubu upon assuming office but assured of a methodical approach to addressing them.
“We empathize with the populace and understand the current hardships, but we urge our citizens to grant the president sufficient time to steer Nigeria back on track. The current issues did not arise overnight; they evolved gradually. We believe Nigeria will flourish under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership,” Raji declared.
The leaders implore the youth to acknowledge the administration’s accomplishments and genuine endeavors to enhance the lives of all Nigerians.
They advocate for any grievances or suggestions to be channeled through appropriate platforms, assuring the youth that their voices will be listened to and addressed.