Lagos indigenous youths, under the Lagos Indigenous Youth Network (LIYN), have voiced their opposition to the planned protest slated for August1st to 10th 2024, saying they will resist a repeat of the #EndSARS destruction in the state.
The youth from the five divisions of the state who stated this at a press conference held yesterday at statue of the three Wise Men located at the entrance of the state to express their concerns, asserted that the protest appears to have political motivations rather than genuine concern for the public interest.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Mobolaji Ogunlende highlighted that intelligence reports suggest that the protest is politically driven.
“We are not against citizens constructively engaging their leaders when necessary.
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 said.
He 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”, Ogunlende stated.
He urged those behind the protest to reconsider their actions, asserting, “Lagos is working, and we stand with our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He is kind and humane. He will address all grievances and ensure that all is well in our dear country, Nigeria.”
According to him, though the citizens have rights to protest there is no justification for Lagos State to be the focal point of such politically motivated protests aimed at destroying property.
He said Lagos State should be encouraged to remain the pace setter in the country ,saying,” the state is paying above the minimum wage and this can be verified. 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.’’
