A former Minister of State for Defence and Foreign Affairs and a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, has appealed to Nigerian youth to exercise patience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and reconsider the planned nationwide protests.
In a statement issued on Friday in Lagos, Obanikoro acknowledged the significant challenges facing the nation and the growing frustration among the youth. He emphasized the need for trust in the government’s efforts to address these issues and work towards a better future.
Obanikoro said, “My dear young ones and all Nigerians, I appeal to you to be patient with President Tinubu to make things right. He inherited most of these challenges and change does not happen overnight. I can assure you that he and his team are committed to laying the foundation for a prosperous future, and we need your patience and understanding to achieve this goal.”
Obanikoro recognized the youth’s constitutional rights to protest but urged them to reconsider the planned protest due to the level of insecurity in the country and the possibility of hijacking by those with ill intentions.
He said, “I understand that frustrations and concerns about the country’s challenges are real, and I acknowledge the passion and energy that drives your desire for change. However, I urge you to consider the potential consequences of protests, including harm to well-intentioned protesters, unrest, looting, and other negative activities which the 5th Columnists may hide under to perpetrate.”
He highlighted the government’s investments in infrastructure, healthcare, technology, education, and security as evidence of its commitment to building a better future.
He added, “Rather than embarking on protest which may eventually lead to wanton destruction of private and public property, I urged the youth to engage with the government and participate in the democratic process. Despite the frustrations, it is crucial to trust in the government’s efforts to address your concerns. By working together, I believe that Nigeria can overcome its challenges and build a brighter future for all.”
