Students from various tertiary institutions in Lagos State have opted to hold a solidarity walk in support of the state government from August 1 to 10, rather than participating in a nationwide protest scheduled for the same dates.
According to The PUNCH, these students, representing the National Association of Nigerian Students in Lagos, on Tuesday announced their stance during a press conference at the Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja.
They emphasized their disapproval of the planned ‘End Bad Governance in Nigeria’ protest aimed at highlighting issues such as hunger and the rising cost of living under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Addressing journalists, NANS Lagos Chairman, Lekan Alimi, alongside other student leaders, declared their intention to support Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praising his administration for its support to students.
Alimi described the nationwide protest as “absolutely uncalled for” and stressed the importance of peace and constructive dialogue to avoid a repeat of the 2020 #EndSARS protests.
Alimi, supported by various student union leaders, stated, “In these trying times, it is crucial that we remember the importance of stability, peace, and constructive dialogue in achieving our collective goals. Given these significant contributions and the progress we have witnessed, we strongly state that we are not in support of any protest against the government of Lagos.”
He urged students to focus on positive actions such as volunteering for community projects and participating in initiatives that promote academic and extracurricular excellence.
He added, “We believe that with time, patience, and continued collaboration with the government, we will see further improvements and solutions to the issues we face. Let us stand together in unity and purpose, ensuring that our actions reflect our commitment to a better future for all.”
Alimi also announced plans for a “Solidarity Walk” to coincide with the proposed protest dates, stating, “We plan to hold this walk from the 1st to the 10th of August, 2024, coinciding with the proposed dates of a planned protest by some unknown individuals. We will not let the voices of discord and destruction drown out our message of unity and progress.”
Other student leaders echoed these sentiments. Titilayo Ekindayo, Chairman of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter, emphasized that female students would not partake in any protest, appreciating the opportunities provided by Governor Sanwo-Olu.
President of the National Association of Lagos State Students, Hafiz Olufowobi, highlighted the governor’s efforts to ease student hardships and affirmed their stance against the protest, stating, “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. We are saying no to protest in my state.”
The students’ resolution underscores their commitment to maintaining peace and supporting the Lagos State government’s initiatives aimed at student welfare and development.
