In a press briefing by Akure youths in respect of the ongoing End SARS crisis, the president of the Akure Youth Coalition addressed the press and the general public.
As what began as a genuine expression of human right in form of protest is gradually nosediving into political imbroglio across Ondo State and majorly Akure. We the leadership of the Akure Youth Coalition condemn in it entirety the destruction of lives and properties under any guise. Just as the ugly political event of 1983 which claimed many lives and properties is still fresh in our memory, we make bold to state the following:
1. The genuine intentions of the peaceful protesters should be guided against being hijacked by hoodlums for their self-seeken political agenda.
2. The peace enjoy by residence of Akure and its environs is an asset we so treasure. Any youth who avail himself to be use as an object of destruction to threaten this precious asset is an enemy of the City and will be treated as such going forward.
3. The 1983 political carnage which claimed the lives of many notable Akure indigenes was a major setback in our socio-political existence as a town. We strongly frown at anyone out to cause a repeat of such in our history.
4. We have our brothers across political parties and we so much cherish the consanguinity bond that bonds us together as one. We urge all active players in the field of politics to reign in their supporters for the collective good of the state and Akure as the capital city.
5. We wish to state unequivocally that the Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi and the Deji in Council had been at the fire front of ensuring peace within Akure Kingdom. As youths, we abide by their Noble decisions that are meant to restore normalcy and prevent further destruction of properties and lives.
6. Notwithstanding, we urge all miscreants to stay clear of our state. We will not allow any hoodlum to take advantage of the situation under any guise. we warned them to stay away.
7. However, we urge the federal and respective state governments to look into the genuineness of this protest. We urge the government to heed the Clarion call of the Noble youths. The time for restructuring is now. We demand good and responsive governance where the youths will have a say in the government. A Nigeria we will be proud of.
8. With a sober heart, we sympathize with all our gallant colleagues who have lost their lives during this struggle, most especially, the brutal killings at the Lekki toll plaza. May the Lord grant them eternal rest. They remain the hero of this struggle.
Long Live Akure
Long Live Ondo State
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria