A group of prominent leaders in Oyo State has appealed to the youth in the state to reconsider the planned protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, scheduled for August 1 to 10.
The leaders, all former federal lawmakers, met with youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress, student leaders, and other critical stakeholders on Wednesday, at the party’s permanent secretariat in Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Among the leaders were Kolawole Raji, Muraina Ajibola, Dapo Lam Adesina, Sunday Adepoju, and Segun Odebunmi,
The meeting, according to them, was to sensitise members of the APC on the potential ills of the planned protest and to discuss the state of the nation.
Raji, who briefed journalists after the meeting, stressed the dangers of the planned protest and highlighted the significant achievements of Tinubu’s government.
He listed the Local Government autonomy, enabling the LGs to manage funds independently and improve governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.
Raji also listed the introduction of a comprehensive interest-free student loan scheme by the administration, priority to infrastructural development with major projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, Badagry-Sokoto Expressway, and many other road projects across the country.
He said the extensive national rail network rehabilitation would enhance connectivity, boost economic activities, and create numerous job opportunities for the youth.
“To address the rising cost of living and improve the standard of living for Nigerian workers, the Tinubu administration has increased the national minimum wage to N70,000. This increment aims to enhance the purchasing power of workers and promote a fairer distribution of wealth.
“Initiatives such as the Youth Farm Initiative and the Agricultural Enhancement Programme have empowered young farmers with training, funding, and resources, contributing to the nation’s agricultural transformation and food security, among others,” he said.
Raji said Tinubu met significant challenges upon taking office but was committed to addressing them methodically.
“We are very sympathetic towards the people and we are very aware that things are tough at this time, but we implore our people to give the president more time to put Nigeria back in shape. These things we complain of didn’t happen at once, it was gradual. We are confident Nigeria would be great under President Bola Tinubu,” Raji said.
The leaders urge the youth to recognise the achievements and the genuine efforts of the current administration to improve the lives of all Nigerians.
They encourage any grievances or suggestions to be communicated through appropriate channels while assuring them that their voices will be heard and addressed.
Peoplesmind
