Enugu youth group pulls out of nationwide protest

A group, Enugu Innovative Youths, has declared that they would refrain from taking part in any “destructive protests”, despite the worsening hunger and economic hardship in Nigeria, on July 26, 2024.

During a press conference in Enugu on Friday, the group, which includes members from all 17 local government areas of Enugu State, reaffirmed their dedication to preserving peace and stability.

They emphasized their commitment to maintaining calm within the state.

The group acknowledged the country’s severe challenges, such as widespread hunger, financial difficulties, and a high debt ratio.

However, Jude Aniagu, the group’s Publicity Secretary, highlighted that Enugu State is experiencing significant progress.

He attributed this positive development to the efforts of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.

The group acknowledges the rationale behind the Nationwide Hunger Protest planned for August 1-10, 2024.

Despite this, they encourage their peers to rethink joining the protest.

They point to the positive changes and the “breath of fresh air” in Enugu State as reasons for reconsideration.

“We are not oblivious to the possibility of the proposed Nationwide Hunger Protest being hijacked by perpetrators of evil and hoodlums.

“Hence, the youths in Enugu State must withdraw and distance themselves from the destruction of our common heritage.

“Enugu State is our own and one of the most peaceful and productive states of the federation.

“We cannot relapse into a state of anarchy and infrastructural deficit, which the nationwide protest will bring.

“Enugu youths must resist any attempt to destroy or deface the aesthetics, beauty, and ambience of Enugu under Gov. Mbah’s excellent and stellar performance in the state.”

The Enugu youth’s concern

The group expressed concern about the potential loss of lives among youths during the protest.

They claimed that hoodlums were planning to hijack the event to pursue their own sinister motives.

This could result in attacks on the peaceful youths of the state.

“While we call for calm among our youths in the state, we are also calling on the Federal Government and the State Government under Gov. Mbah to engage Enugu youths in dialogue on the best way to close the gap in unemployment ratio and poverty headcount index ratio in the state, especially among the youths.

“We are also aware that the Enugu State Government has plans for job creation for the youths through his proposal of strategic programs and training in Information Technology and Entrepreneurship development.

“We must not lose our lives to this protest but must strive to be beneficiaries of this lofty vision.

“We are aware that any protest in Enugu will destroy our common heritage which Governor Mbah is assiduously working to revive through his massive infrastructural projects in our dear state, hence, a call for calm and peace,” the statement included the following.

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