#EndSARS Protest: Ogun Governor Calls For Dialogue With Youths Leaders

By ABIODUN JIMOH, ABEOKUTA

In playing his fatherly role, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has once again requested the youth groups to appoint leaders amongst themselves for a meeting with him for further dialogue.
Abiodun disclosed this aftermath of the ongoing peaceful #EndSARS protest across the state and Nigeria at large in which many protesters have been killed since the commencement of the protest.
Prince Abiodun while addressing newsmen on Tuesday in his office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta on the #EndSARS protest noted that it became imperative that having held a meeting with security chiefs in the state, and after an assessment of the prevailing situation, particularly emerging threats to public safety and security, as a responsible administration, the government considered a number of options, including imposing a curfew on the state. 
He said: “However, in line with our focused, deliberate and measured approach, we are adopting the following measures in the meantime:
“All schools are closed till Monday, 26th October, 2020; Operation of commercial motorcycle, popularly called okada, is suspended across the state for today Wednesday, 21st October, in the first instance; Increased security around the correctional centres and public buildings
“Blockade of highways and molestation of innocent citizens going about their lawful business by protesters will no longer be tolerated; Deployment of joint patrol teams of security agencies to ensure no threat to public security.
“Once again, we are hereby requesting the youth groups to appoint leaders amongst themselves for a meeting with the governor for further dialogue.
“We will be reviewing developments on a 24-hourly basis and will not hesitate to announce stringent measures as may be considered necessary.
“I must emphasise that we cannot fold our arms and let the state descend into anarchy. No right is absolute. In exercising our rights, we must respect the rights of others. There cannot be a better tomorrow, if we destroy today and the foundation being laid for tomorrow.
“Let me warn that Ogun State will not be conducive to anyone who may want to test the resolve of government to provide security or those who may want to come from other states to foment trouble in our dear state. 
“The security agencies have been directed to ensure full compliance with the measures announced to ensure security of lives and properties. 
“Therefore, I appeal to all parents, guardians, traditional and religious leaders and indeed all stakeholders to rein their children and wards to avoid any act that may breach public peace or bring them into confrontation with the law enforcement agencies.
“I urge all to take full advantage of the windows available to express grievances in peaceful manners, including the Ogun State Human Rights Complaints Report portal and allow time for full implementation of the various government initiatives in response to their demands. 
“We must continue to be on eagle alert so that some unscrupulous element who do not have the love of this nation at heart; who do not share the same development ideals; who may want to take advantage of this situation for their selfish motives, to hijack the process. 
“Our nation can ill-afford such a scenario. I have no doubt that, together, we can build a stronger, united and prosperous nation that works for all.”