Osun Osogbo festival will not hinder protest-Take it back movement
The Take-It-Back Movement in Osun State has announced its intention to resume its protest immediately after the Osun Osogbo festival.
The movement, which advocates for the Nigerian government to meet citizens’ demands, emphasized the continuation of their peaceful demonstrations.
Organizers urged security agents to ensure the safety of people and property during the protests, as mandated by law.
This statement was released on Tuesday by Samson Tola, the Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, who called on security personnel to continue safeguarding the lives and properties of protesters as they have been doing since the start of the protests.
It is important to note that the “End Bad Governance” protest arose from widespread hunger and starvation due to the President Tinubu administration’s reckless policies. The protest remains leaderless and organic.
Tola stated, “The protest, initially set for August 1st-10th and possibly beyond, continues nationwide according to the planned schedule. President Tinubu’s failure to address the protest’s core issues in his recent address justifies its continuation until the scheduled end or longer.”
He emphasized that no individual or group can end the protest for personal reasons, as no Nigerian has more ownership of the country than another. The cited reason is insufficient to justify ending the protest in the state.
Tola noted that the Osun Osogbo festival has always occurred without issue, with TIB participating annually to express dissatisfaction with national conditions without disrupting worshippers. This tradition continues this year.
He added that they believe in presenting Nigeria’s problems to the Osun goddess annually as part of their tradition.
Tola reported that about 40 protesters from the Northern region have been killed by security forces, with many more detained recently.
“We call on authorities to release Adaramoye Michael Lenin, National Coordinator of the Youth Rights Campaign, Babatunde Oluajo, and all protesters arrested nationwide unconditionally.
“We condemn the unjustified use of force against protesters exercising their right to protest against economic hardship and poor governance. We will continue to advocate for justice and improved governance.
“Protesters have the right to peacefully engage in the streets to voice our collective demands,” he said.
