President Muhammadu Buhari has appealed to youths to end all protests and focus on engaging government to find answers to their grievances.
The President, who spoke at the maiden National Youth Day celebration on November 1, which coincided with the African Youth Day celebration, encouraged the youths to rather go for meaningful discussions with government for comprehensive reforms to end all forms of police brutality against Nigerians.
Buhari, who was represented by the Minister for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Muhammed Bello, told the gathering his administration has heard the pleas of youths.
The President also announced that over one million applications had already been received since the Youth Investment Fund Portal went live on 12th of October 2020.
According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, the President added the Federal Government ‘‘now wants to hear concrete and practical ideas,’’ from the youths, while acknowledging their constitutional right to peaceful protests.
”You must realise that protests cannot last indefinitely. My government will not lift a hand to stop or suppress you.
”However, the fact of the matter is that other forces and actors will seek to take over your protests that they may redirect them in ways you did not intend and perhaps do not agree with.
”Every successful protest movement the world over has understood that there comes a time when activity must move from the street to the negotiation table. That time for you has come. Do not be afraid of this reality. You should welcome it.
”It is important that we all strive to use this moment constructively. Too many people have already sacrificed too dearly. It is our duty to use this fateful situation to move ourselves to a more just and caring society.
”As youth, you have a nation and a future to build. My government will always be your faithful partner in this essential and patriotic endeavour,” he said.
Buhari strongly opposed wrongful use and imposition of violent force against innocent, law-abiding persons, particularly young people.
”No one who is obeying the law, whether they are in line waiting for a taxi or in a peaceful protest line, should be harassed or brutalized by law enforcement agencies.
”It is because of my abiding belief in the people’s constitutional rights that we moved with dispatch to abolish SARS and to consider other reforms that will enhance the quality of law enforcement and improve the relationship between the police and public which is a pre-requisite in a just society.
”To allow protests is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of strength and belief in democracy, and faith in the innate goodness of our people.
”This also shows confidence in the ability of our government to work with the people toward a reasonable and practical resolution to any challenge,” he said.