The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, has appealed to youths planning to stage a protest on October 1 to reconsider and give the government more time to address the nation’s economic challenges. Onuoha made this plea during a meeting with executives of the “Take It Back” movement, Kogi State chapter, at the command headquarters in Lokoja.
According to Onuoha, the group has the right to peaceful protest, but reconsidering would prevent disgruntled elements from hijacking the process and unleashing mayhem on innocent citizens. He emphasized that this would have serious negative effects on the nation’s economy.
The Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, stated that the commissioner advised the group to “reconsider their planned protest and give the government more time to fix the economy of our dear nation”. The meeting was called in response to a letter received from the group on September 27.
The leader of the “Take It Back” movement assured Onuoha that the group would accept his advice and remain committed to peace, progress, and development in Kogi State. The executive members will meet to deliberate on the issues raised and come to a reasonable resolution regarding their participation in the protest.
The group commended Onuoha for the constructive engagement, which enlightened them on their responsibilities as youths and leaders of tomorrow. The meeting was attended by top police officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Chike Nwabuwa and Assistant Commissioner of Police Aigbe Aghahowa.
Onuoha’s appeal comes as Nigeria prepares to mark its independence anniversary on October 1. The planned protest is likely aimed at addressing the country’s economic challenges, which have sparked widespread discontent.
The “Take It Back” movement has been vocal about its demands for economic reform and good governance. While the group’s plans for the protest are unclear, Onuoha’s appeal may influence their decision to proceed or reconsider.
