Ahead of the planned nationwide protests scheduled to hold from August 1 to 10, 2024, against the hardship in the country, the leadership of students across tertiary institutions in Lagos State on Tuesday vowed to shun any form of protest that may disturb the peace and stability of the state and the nation at large.
Leaders of the students, including Comrade Alimi Lekan Idris, Chairman, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lagos chapter; Comrade Hafiz Olufowobi, National President, National Association of Lagos State Students; and Comrade Titilayo Ekundayo, National Female Students Association of Nigeria, Lagos chapter, among others, said they were not in support of the protest as the students’ bodies recognised, in the face of frustrations and challenges currently faced by many, the importance of peace, stability, and constructive dialogue in achieving their collective goal, hence the need to eschew violence.
Addressing a World Press Conference, which took place in the Ikeja area of Lagos, Idris appreciated the significant contributions and progress that had been witnessed in the state under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, declaring pointedly that students of tertiary institutions in the state were not in support of any protests against the government.
“We are not in support of any protests against the government of Lagos.
“We understand the frustrations and challenges faced by many, but we must also recognise the advancements and opportunities that have been provided to cushion the economic effect of that nation, and we hope other states can emulate the Lagos State government,” he said.
Idris, however, said rather, students of tertiary institutions in Lagos would hold a solidarity walk in support of the state government from August 1 to 10, to coincide with the proposed dates of “planned nationwide protests by some unknown individuals.”
He said this would be a demonstration of the students’ support for the Lagos State government, as well as their commitment to peace and stability in the state and Nigeria at large.
“We will not let the voices of discord and destruction drown out our message of unity and progress,” he vowed.
“We invite all students, youth organisations, and well-citizens to join us on this walk as we show our appreciation for the government’s efforts and our commitment to a brighter future for Lagos. Together, we can make a difference!” he said.
While maintaining that defending and preserving the peace and prosperity of Lagos remained a priority, Idris said that the students’ bodies cannot afford to allow destructive events, such as the #EndSARS episode, to repeat themselves.
He urged all students to channel their energies into constructive dialogue and positive actions, such as volunteering for community development projects, participating in student-government initiatives, and engaging in academic and extracurricular activities that promote academic excellence.
The NANS president, Lagos chapter, expressed the belief that “with time and patience and continued collaboration with the government,” Nigerians would see further improvements and solutions to the challenges confronting the country currently.
“Let us stand together in unity and purpose, ensuring that our actions reflect our commitment to a better future for all,” he changed.
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
