Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State announced that the state's youths will not join the nationwide protest against economic hardship. He emphasized dialogue over demonstrations, highlighting the peaceful nature of Niger's youths. His remarks, made during a town hall meeting, have sparked varied reactions among residents.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has announced that the state's youths will not be participating in the upcoming nationwide protest against hunger and economic hardship. The protest, set to begin at the end of this month, aims to address widespread grievances over the nation's economic conditions.
During a town hall meeting with stakeholders held at the Justice Legbo Kutigi Conference Center in Minna, the state capital, on July 18, Governor Bago emphasized the peaceful and law-abiding nature of Niger State's youths. He expressed confidence that there was no need for them to join the protest.
"Dialogue is the best way towards solving problems," Bago stated. "We, as youths of Niger State, have distanced ourselves from the nationwide protest because we are peaceful and want peace and tranquility. If we start demonstrations, it cannot solve the problem, and the demonstrations will continue. Dialogue and understanding are the only answers. So to the youths who are agitating for this protest, let us end these agitations, let us communicate and dialogue on the best way forward."
Governor Bago's remarks come amidst growing calls for protests across the country due to rising economic hardship. He underscored that demonstrations would not yield the desired solutions and instead advocated for communication and constructive dialogue as the means to address the issues.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among residents and stakeholders. Some have praised the governor's stance on prioritizing peace, while others have criticized it as being out of touch with the harsh realities faced by many Nigerians.
As the date for the nationwide protest approaches, it remains to be seen how Governor Bago's call for dialogue will influence the actions of Niger State's youths and whether other state governments will adopt similar positions. The situation continues to develop, with many eyes on how the national movement will unfold in response to the ongoing economic challenges.
