Lagos students shun national protest, plan solidarity walk

Students of some tertiary institutions in Lagos State have said rather than joining a nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10, they have resolved to embark on a solidarity walk in support of the state government on the same day.

The students on Tuesday distanced themselves from the planned national protest by some Nigerians, tagged ‘#EndBad Governance in Nigeria,’ to draw the attention of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to the plight of Nigerians, hunger, and rising cost of living in the country.

The students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students in Lagos, said the “Solidarity Walk” would be held to support and encourage the government of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who they said has been of great support to them.

Speaking to journalists during a press conference at the Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja, after a joint meeting, student leaders across tertiary institutions in Lagos State said their solidarity walk would also be held from August 1 to 10 to drum for peace, especially to ensure that the ugly incident of #EndSARS” of 2020 does not repeat itself.

The chairman, NANS, Lagos axis, Lekan Alimi, who addressed journalists on behalf of the students of various tertiary institutions in the state, described the planned nationwide protests against hardship in the country as “absolutely uncalled for.”

Alimi, flanked by the President of the National Association of Lagos State Students, Hafiz Olufowobi; chairman, National Association of University Students (Lagos Chapter), Miracle Yemoh; Assistant General Secretary (South-West), National Association of Polytechnic Students, Zainab Yakub; Chairman, National Female Students Association of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), Titilayo Ekindayo; and Presidents of the Students Union of tertiary institutions in the state, said rather than joining the protest, students would prefer constructive dialogue with governments in achieving collective goals.

While noting that the trying times in the country would soon fade out, Akoni appealed to Nigerians to persevere a little more to enjoy the dividends of democracy of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He said, “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.

“We understand the frustrations and challenges faced by many, but we must also recognise the advancements and opportunities that have been provided to cushion the economic effect of the nation, and we hope other states can emulate the Lagos State Government.

“We cannot afford to let the destructive events of the past, such as the EndSARS protests, repeat themselves. Our priority is to defend and preserve the peace and prosperity of Lagos. “

He urged all students to channel their energies into constructive dialogue and positive action, such as volunteering for community development projects, participating in student-government initiatives, and engaging in academic and extracurricular activities that promote excellence.

He added that “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.

“As a demonstration of our support for the Lagos State Government and our commitment to peace and stability, we announce our intention to hold a Solidarity Walk in support of the government.

“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.

“We invite all students, youth organizations, and well-meaning citizens to join us on this walk as we show our appreciation for the government’s efforts and our commitment to a brighter future for Lagos. Together, we can make a difference!”

Alimi, while declaring students’ support for Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration, expressed their readiness to protect Lagos from another #EndSARS saga in the name protest proposed to commence next month.

He said: “After extensive deliberations, we have come in unison and in one voice to say ‘Thank You Lagos’ for being prompt and responsive to many needs of the people through the THEMES+ agenda.

“It is also important to note that the Governor has maintained open lines of communication with student leaders, as evidenced by the recent parley with Mr. Governor. This ongoing engagement highlights a genuine interest in addressing our concerns and finding solutions that benefit us all.

“The Lagos State Government has prioritised education in its agenda, leading to the establishment of new schools, namely: Lagos State University of Education, Oto-Ijanikin with a campus in Epe; Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu; and proper and prompt funding of all existing ones with upgrades in their infrastructures; and the introduction of innovative teaching methods. These investments are empowering our young people with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century.

He acknowledged what he said was “the tremendous efforts of the Governor of Lagos State”, who according to him “has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the student constituency.

“From the increment of bursaries and scholarships to the generous donation of buses to all tertiary institutions in Lagos, including the NANS Aluta bus, the Governor has shown that he values and supports the growth and development of students in our state.

“Additionally, the employment and job opportunities extended to some student leaders across the state are a testament to his dedication to our future. The recent appointment of student leaders to key positions in the Lagos State government, such as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Tertiary Education, Secondary and Basic Education, and Vocational and Technical Board, demonstrates his willingness and commitment to involve students in the decision-making process of the state.

“Also, in Secondary and Basic Education, N1,571,076,000 was approved as registration fees and other sundry costs for 58,188 SS3 students writing the West Africa School Certificate Examination; 18,912 Mobile Learning Devices were distributed to SS2 students across the six education districts in the state. Scholarships and bursaries for students of Lagos State origin in tertiary institutions have been significantly increased.”

Also speaking, Chairman, National Female Students Association of Nigeria (Lagos chapter), Ekindayo, said female students in Lagos State will shun any form of protest.

“Lagos has been in peace and will continue to be in peace. We students are saying no to protest in Lagos State. We appreciate Governor Sanwo-Olu for giving opportunities to women in the state, and we female students will shun any form of protest,” she said.

Olufowobi, said Governor Sanwo-Olu has done a lot in Lagos State; therefore, there is no basis to embark on a national protest in the state.

“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,” he said.