Lagos Indigenous Youths Oppose Planned Hunger Protest
A group of Lagos indigenous youths, under the Lagos Indigenous Youth Network (LIYN), has voiced their opposition to the planned hunger protest slated for August 1 to 10, 2024. The protest, which has been met with skepticism, has been accused of having political motivations rather than genuine concern for the public interest.
At a press conference held on Sunday, youth leaders from the five divisions of the state gathered at the statue of the three Wise Men in Ikeja, the state capital, to express their concerns. Mobolaji Ogunlende, a leader in LIYN, emphasized that intelligence reports suggest the protest is politically driven.
“We are not against citizens constructively engaging their leaders when necessary,” Ogunlende said. “However, when such engagement turns into a platform for tension and warmongering, potentially aimed at settling political scores, it is time to exercise caution. This is what we are doing today.”
Ogunlende further emphasized that the protest does not align with the interests of peace-loving and hardworking Lagosians. “We do not support it. We say no to any protest in whatever guise or disguise. We are coming together to defend #OurLagos against any possible destruction by agents of violence masquerading as supporters of the people. Their only interest is their selfish interest,” he stated.
The group called on all Lagosians, particularly parents, to discourage their children from participating in the protest. “It is not a wise thing to do,” Ogunlende warned.
In a final appeal, the youths urged those behind the protest to reconsider their actions, asserting, “Lagos is working, and we stand with our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He will address all grievances and ensure that all is well in our dear country, Nigeria.”
According to Ogunlende, though citizens have the right to protest, there is no justification for Lagos State to be the focal point of such a protest aimed at destroying property. He encouraged the Lagos State Government to remain the pacesetter in the country, highlighting that the state is paying above the minimum wage and has cleared all pension backlog.
“Lagos does not owe workers Salaries. Lagos does not owe Pensioners. The only state to have cleared all pension backlog. Lagos does not discriminate between indigenes and non-indigenes. Its hospitality is second to none. Lagos provides free healthcare to expectant women. Lagos provides subsidised education to all residents, regardless of ethnicity,” Ogunlende said.
The Lagos Indigenous Youth Network’s stance is clear: they will not stand idly by as the state is put in harm’s way. With the planned hunger protest just around the corner, it remains to be seen whether the organizers will heed the group’s warning and reconsider their actions.
