Leaders from over 60 youth organizations have announced that their members will not participate in the nationwide protest scheduled for October 1, aimed at opposing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The protest, named the “Fearless in October Protest,” is being organized by the same group behind the recent #EndBadGovernance demonstrations.
During a visit to Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Duke Alamboye, President of the Nigeria Youth Organization, articulated the decision to withdraw from the protest, according to Daily Post.
This information was shared in a statement from Otuaro’s Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Igoniko Oduma.
The coalition of youth bodies includes several prominent organizations, such as the National Youth Congress, Arewa Youth Council, and the Yoruba Youth Council.
Alamboye emphasized the importance of steering Nigerian youth away from protests he characterized as misguided.
He announced plans for a world press conference on September 23, 2024, followed by a youth summit on October 1, to raise awareness about the potential dangers of participation in the protest, which could be exploited by troublemakers.
Alamboye encouraged young people to pursue constructive dialogue with the government instead of engaging in disruptive protests.
Other representatives from youth councils expressed similar sentiments, affirming their support for President Tinubu and recognizing the initiatives of the PAP under Otuaro’s guidance.
Otuaro commended the youth leaders for their decision to disassociate from the protest, labeling Tinubu a youth-friendly leader for his appointments of young people in various government roles. He called on Nigerian youths to avoid being manipulated into unpatriotic actions and to focus on constructive engagement, noting that the President’s reforms will take time to show results.
“Mr. President is committed to the nation’s progress,” Otuaro stated, encouraging youth to present their concerns through dialogue rather than protests. He warned against those using anti-government rhetoric for personal agendas, urging vigilance among young people.
“Concerning the state of the nation, we are not unaware of the agitation from certain quarters calling for a nationwide protest on October 1, 2024. It is a protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
“As youth leaders and lovers of peace and national advancement, the Nigeria Youth Organization would like to inform you of our plan and intention to hold a world press conference on the 23rd of September, 2024, geared towards sensitizing the average Nigerian youth on the need to shun the planned protest.
“We want people to seek dialogue as a better reconciliation tool for venting their grievances. We also hope to organise a summit on October 1st, 2024, as a follow-up to the world press conference. We anticipate that all well-meaning stakeholders will play vital roles in charting a better cause for our youths,” Alamboye said.
“Mr President means well for the country. It is reassuring to know that Nigerian youths are with Mr President, who has been in office for a little over a year. As youths, we should organise ourselves and present our grievances and concerns through constructive dialogues.
“Nobody should manipulate you to achieve their ulterior goals. Most of those championing the so-called protest are only seeking attention and they thrive under the guise of anti-government protests to get attention. Youths should be watchful,” the PAP administrator said.
