Planned protest: Lagos Youths Warn “Troublemakers” to Steer Clear of Planned August 1st Protest

As tensions rise ahead of the August 1 nationwide protest, youths in Lagos State have issued a strong warning to those they describe as “troublemakers” intending to disrupt the peace. These youths, under the Indigenous Youth Network, representing all five traditional divisions of Lagos, made their position clear during a press briefing at the “Three Wise Men” statue along Olowopopo Way, Ikeja.

Led by Mobolaji Ogunlende from the Badagry Division, the Indigenous Youth Network emphasized their support for the right to peaceful protest but vowed to defend their city against any form of violence.

“We acknowledge the fundamental right to protest, but it must be constructive and in the best interest of the people,” Ogunlende said. “We will defend our heritage against any violence during the planned protest.”

The group believes the protest is politically motivated and called for constructive dialogue instead of actions aimed at destabilizing the country. They urged the sponsors of the protest to reconsider, pledging their support for President Bola Tinubu, whom they described as a “kind and humane” leader.

“Intelligence gathered reveals that the planned protest is politically motivated and not in the interest of Lagosians, who are peace-loving and hardworking. We are coming together to defend our heritage and state against any possible destruction by agents of violence masquerading as lovers of the people,” Ogunlende stated.

Reflecting on the violence during the EndSARS protests of 2020, Ogunlende stressed that Lagos is still recovering from the extensive damage. “Taxpayers are still paying for the effort to rebuild the torched facilities,” he noted. “Rather than causing crises that would necessitate further rebuilding, state resources should be channeled into productive initiatives benefiting residents.”

Ogunlende highlighted various initiatives by the state government that have benefited residents, including paying above the minimum wage, not owing workers’ salaries or pensioners, providing free healthcare to expectant women, and subsidized education for all residents. He also mentioned the transformative Red Line and Blue Line rail projects, Independent Power projects, the development of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, and numerous infrastructure improvements.

“Lagos deserves the support of the youth to do more, rather than being destabilized under the guise of a protest. We have a government that prioritizes the affairs of the youth beyond rhetoric,” Ogunlende concluded.

The Indigenous Youth Network’s message is clear: they stand for peace, progress, and the continued development of Lagos, urging all citizens to support constructive and non-violent engagement.