“NOTHING Like PROTEST For Us”- Shock As This Set Of Students Rejects
On July 24, 2024, students from various tertiary institutions in Lagos State announced their decision to conduct a solidarity walk in support of the state government rather than participating in a nationwide protest. The planned national protest, titled ‘ #EndBadGovernance in Nigeria, ‘ aims to draw attention to the economic hardships faced by Nigerians, including hunger and the rising cost of living. However, the students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Lagos, have chosen a different path.
The solidarity walk, scheduled to run concurrently with the national protest from August 1 to 10, will serve as an endorsement of Governor Babajide Sanwo- Olu’ s administration. During a press conference at the Lagos State University College of Medicine in Ikeja, student leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the state. Lekan Alimi, the chairman of NANS Lagos axis, led the briefing, with other student leaders such as Hafiz Olufowobi, President of the National Association of Lagos State Students, and Miracle Yemoh, Chairman of the National Association of University Students (Lagos Chapter), by his side.
Alimi described the planned nationwide protests as unnecessary and highlighted the constructive role of dialogue in addressing grievances. He acknowledged the frustrations many Nigerians face but urged for patience and unity. He cited Governor Sanwo- Olu’ s proactive measures, such as the THEMES+ agenda, which have provided relief and opportunities despite the country’ s economic challenges. Alimi warned against a repeat of the violent events of the #EndSARS protests of 2020, stressing the need for peaceful and constructive engagement.
” We understand the frustrations and challenges faced by many, but we must also recognize the advancements and opportunities that have been provided to cushion the economic effect of the nation, ” Alimi said. ” Our priority is to defend and preserve the peace and prosperity of Lagos. ” The student leaders praised Governor Sanwo- Olu’ s contributions to education, including the establishment of new institutions such as the Lagos State University of Education and the Lagos State University of Science and Technology, as well as the improvement of existing facilities. They also highlighted the governor’ s support for students through increased bursaries, scholarships, and job opportunities.
Hafiz Olufowobi, another prominent student leader, reiterated the students’ opposition to the national protest, stating that the governor’ s efforts have significantly alleviated hardships in Lagos. ” Governor Sanwo- Olu has tried his best to ease hardship on students across Lagos State. We are not in support of any protest. This is our state, and we don’ t have where to go if #EndSARS happens again, ” he said.
Titilayo Ekindayo, Chairperson of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), emphasized the importance of preserving peace and expressed gratitude for the governor’ s initiatives supporting women and students in Lagos. Alimi called on all students to channel their energies into positive actions such as volunteering for community projects and engaging in initiatives that promote academic excellence. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration with the government would lead to further improvements and solutions to the country’ s challenges. ” We believe that with time, patience, and continued collaboration with the government, we will see further improvements and solutions to the issues we face, ” he added. ” Let us stand together in unity and purpose, ensuring that our actions reflect our commitment to a better future for all. “
