At a historic press conference held on July 28, the Lagos Indigenous Youth Network, comprising Critical Youth Leaders and Youth Bodies, unanimously agreed that while protest is a fundamental right, they are vehemently opposed to any motive that threatens the peaceful co-existence of the people of Lagos State.

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development in Lagos State,
He acknowledged the fundamental right to protest but emphasized the need for constructive engagement. He warned that the protest could lead to tension and violence, sponsored by individuals with selfish interests.

The Commissioner highlighted the achievements of the Lagos State government, including payment of minimum wage, clearance of pension backlog, and provision of free healthcare to expectant women. He also mentioned infrastructure development projects such as the Red and Blue Line rail projects, independent power plants, and road construction.

Additionally, Ogunlende mentioned the successful implementation of the “OUNJE EKO” Sunday markets initiative, where prices were slashed by 25 percent, and transport fares were reduced by 25 percent. He also highlighted the provision of grants to 20,000 residents to start businesses and the payment of bursaries to students in tertiary institutions.

Ogunlende appealed to Lagosians, especially parents, to caution their children against joining the protest, emphasizing that it is not in their best interest. He urged support for the government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which he said is working to address the needs of the youth and provide employment opportunities.

The Commissioner concluded by saying, “We will stand for our Lagos. We will stand with our hardworking Governor. We will not allow another war in Lagos. This is our heritage, and we must preserve it. Lagos will remain a home to all of us.”

Maria Itunuoluwa Soniregun, Speaker of the Lagos State Youth Parliament, appealed to youths in the state to embrace peaceful protests and avoid violence.

Soniregun emphasized that she is not opposed to peaceful protests, but strongly condemns violent demonstrations that result in destruction, loss of life, and injuries. She cited examples of iconic figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Desmond Tutu, and Nelson Mandela, who achieved their goals through peaceful protests.

The Speaker urged Lagos youths not to allow themselves to be manipulated by unknown individuals or groups. Instead, she encouraged them to uphold the integrity of the state and adopt strategic, rather than dramatic, approaches to expressing their grievances.

Mazi Leo Obasi, a resident of Lagos State, appealed to individuals and groups planning to protest in the state to embrace dialogue instead of destructive actions.

Obasi emphasized that Lagos is a home for all, where people from diverse backgrounds have come to settle, earn a living, and raise their families. He expressed his opposition to any form of destructive protest, stating that it would harm the very place they call home.

Obasi noted that he spends 362 days of the year in Lagos, and like many others, has a deep connection to the state. He urged those with grievances to take advantage of the listening ears of the Governor and President, who are willing to engage in dialogue.

“There is no progress in destruction,” Obasi said. “I call on whoever is aggrieved to come forward for dialogue, either with the state or the president. They will listen.”

Okununga Opeyemi, a concerned resident of Lagos State, appealed to youths in the state to avoid engaging in any form of protest, citing the destructive aftermath of previous protest.

Opeyemi emphasized that Lagos is their home and home for all, expressed concern about the potential destruction of properties and infrastructure that have been built through hard work. She referenced a verse from the Qur’an, which states that “after every hardship, there will be ease at the end,” and urged youths to have faith in this current administration.

“Let’s believe in this Administration so that we can all live happily,” Opeyemi said. “Protest is not what we want now. We just want peace in Lagos State.”