By Francis Sadhere, Warri
The Ovie of Idjerhe, King Obukowho MA. Whiskey Ph.D., has issued a call for Nigerian youths to transition from protests to dialogue with the government, following recent hunger and #EndBadGovernance demonstrations.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ovie commended the peaceful protests that highlighted pressing issues such as hunger, insecurity, and inflation.
However, he expressed dismay at the violence and property destruction that marred some protests, noting that these actions undermine the core messages and fail to offer solutions to the country’s problems.
King Obukowho acknowledged the severe hardships faced by Nigerians and affirmed that the government is working to address these challenges.
He urged protesters to redirect their efforts towards constructive dialogue and alternative dispute resolution, emphasizing that such methods are more likely to yield positive results without causing further damage.
“Peaceful protest does not justify the destruction of private and public properties.
“In the last five days, I have watched and followed the hunger and #EndBadGovernance protests across our motherland with keen interest. The protests have recorded mixed feelings. I commend the protesters who peacefully made their demands to the Nigerian government. I am also bewildered to watch the destruction of private and public property by some elements who hijacked the protest to loot our people.
“I cannot help but conclude that the core messages of hunger, insecurity, inflation, and the noticeable disconnect between the ruling class and the ordinary Nigerian have been well passed, and it’s time for true reflections and frank talk.
“The avoidable deaths and destruction of properties, including outright looting businesses, in the course of the protests in some parts of the country cannot and will not bring needed solutions. But I must commend our young children, who have conducted themselves well during the period of the protest. No doubt, there is hardship on the land. Our people are hungry, but the government has assured us they are doing everything to lift Nigerians out of this present phase,” the Ovie stated.
He called for a more approach from the President and other leaders, advocating for a father-son relationship to address national issues.
The Ovie also appealed for a collective effort from all levels of government to implement policies in security and agriculture to address the nation’s multifaceted problems.
He stressed the need for collaboration across political lines to achieve meaningful progress.
King Obukowho concluded his statement with a call for unity and peace, urging Nigerians to focus on actions that promote national cohesion rather than division.
