Hunger protest: Youths suspend demonstration in Osun

…Adeleke calls for dialogue, constructive engagement

By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo

The organisers of the EndBad Governance protest under the aegis of Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens in Osun, has suspended the ongoing Nationwide demonstration due to security concerns related to the Osun Osogbo festival.

The protest, which began on August 1, 2024, aimed to draw attention to pressing issues affecting citizens.

Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Tuesday, the coordinator of the coalition, Comrade Ajala Adetunji said that the movement considers the safety of the  influx of tourists coming for the global Osun Osogbo festival.

He urged citizens to remain resolute in advocating for their demands and continue voicing their concerns as they monitor the government’s response.

Adetunji expressed disappointment in President Bola Tinubu’s recent speech, which failed to address their specific demands.

He said, “We urge the government to act promptly and decisively on the issues we have raised.

“The Coalition will remain vigilant and committed to ensuring that our demands are met while we call on all participants and supporters to stay united and await further updates on the progress of our engagement with the government.

“We thank the people of Osun State and all Nigerians for their unwavering support and commitments to the cause of justice and good governance. Let us continue to advocate for a better Nigeria with peace and dignity.”

Earlier, the protesters had stormed the Osun State Secretariat, where Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor Prince Kola Adewusi, commended their peaceful behaviour and urged dialogue and constructive engagement.

Adeleke promised to table their demands to the Federal Government at the next National Economic Council meeting.

He assured that the Federal Government palliatives would be disbursed to residents once completed.