North-Central Youths Withdraw from August 1 Protest

More than 60,000 youths affiliated with the Arewa Integrity Group for Good Governance in the North Central region, on July 26, 2024, have chosen not to take part in the nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, 2024.

The Federal Government conducted a series of meetings with various youth groups to postpone the protests. 

They requested that President Bola Tinubu’s administration be given more time to implement people-oriented programs.

In a statement, the group’s leader, Joseph Maiwada, confirmed this decision.

He explained that they have chosen to withdraw from the protest, in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

They made this decision to allow the Federal Government time to address citizens’ needs and maintain peace in the region.

He also cited appeals from Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume as a reason for postponing the protest.

George Akume is the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and is also from the North Central region.

Maiwada stated: “The Secretary to the Government of the Federation has appealed to notable youth groups and some pressure groups around the North Central zone of the country…

“And he has reassured us of the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of the citizens.

“We are willing to pacify our people to back down from the protest because the SGF has always stood with us and supported our cause.

“So, we have mobilised over 60,000 members of the group to withdraw from the protest in order to ensure that we all continue to live in peace and unity in the country.”

He further urged other organizers of the nationwide protest to reconsider their plans. 

August 1 protest

A major protest is planned in Nigeria on August 1, 2024, over dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of issues.

This protest is part of the broader #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement.

The protest is set to highlight 15 critical demands from citizens, focusing on the need for substantial governance reforms.

The Nigerian government has acknowledged the protests, urged youths to cancel them, and promised to address their concerns.

Consequently, they hope to defuse the situation.

The government has highlighted recent measures, including the passage of a new national minimum wage bill, distribution of food aid, a student loan program, and initiatives to support unemployed graduates.

These steps aim to mitigate the country’s hardships.

In contrast, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo has urged Igbos to boycott the protests for security and historical reasons.

They fear that participating could worsen the situation and lead to more victimization of the Igbo people in the Southeast.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo known as a prominent Igbo socio-cultural group in Nigeria.

Interestingly, a Nigerian soldier has supported the protest, assuring that the military will protect peaceful demonstrators and avoid using force.

This statement has reinforced many potential participants, reassuring them that the military will not be involved.

The protests are expected to attract nationwide attention, but the North Central region will not participate

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