As Nigeria marked its 64th Independence Anniversary, youths from Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State on Tuesday held a solidarity rally in support of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, opting out of the ongoing protests in parts of the country.
The youths, under the banner “I Am Nigeria,” expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s ability to deliver on his promises and urged Nigerians to exercise patience as the government works to improve the country’s fortunes.
Speaking to journalists after the rally, the convener of the group, Ibrahim Maiyanga, explained that their decision to shun the protests was motivated by a desire to maintain peace in the State and Nigeria at large.
“As patriotic citizens, we decided not to join the protests. The painful memories of the 2020 EndSARS protests are still fresh in the minds of Nigerians who lost loved ones and livelihoods. We believe nationwide protests have done more harm than good,” Maiyanga said.
He called on youth groups organising protests to engage in dialogue with the federal government rather than resorting to actions that could result in loss of lives and property. “Today, we are gathered here to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th Independence. While we may not be where we ought to be, we are certainly not where we used to be. I urge all citizens to be patient with President Tinubu. I am confident that soon, we will all have reasons to smile,” he added.
Maiyanga also emphasized the importance of unity and patience, assuring that both the federal and state governments were working to address the country’s challenges.
While acknowledging citizens’ right to peaceful protest, he expressed concerns that such demonstrations could be hijacked by hoodlums, leading to violence and chaos.
The convener noted that President Tinubu had only spent one year in office, inheriting a battered economy and numerous challenges, and urged Nigerians to give him more time to steer the nation toward progress.
“The youths here today have shown great love for the country by choosing to celebrate rather than protest. We took it upon ourselves to support the government in delivering the dividends of democracy. We call on all Nigerians to show patriotism, exercise patience, and reject the path of destruction. Protests are not the best way forward,” he concluded.
