The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has issued a strong call to the youths of Niger Delta extraction, urging them to come out and actively participate in the planned peaceful protest against bad governance that is scheduled to commence on August 1. This initiative is aimed at addressing the pressing issues that have been affecting the region and the country as a whole.
The President of the IYC Worldwide, Dr. Alaye Theophilus, made this important call in a statement that was made available to Vanguard, emphasizing the need for collective action among the youth to voice their concerns and demand accountability from their leaders.
In his remarks, Dr. Theophilus was responding to recent statements issued by high-ranking officials, including the Chief of Army Staff, the Inspector General of Police, state governors, ministers, and other top government functionaries, who have urged Nigerians not to engage in any form of protest. He expressed his disappointment with these statements, highlighting that the right to protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy and a vital means for citizens to express their grievances.
The IYC president pointed out that Nigerians have a long history of protesting against bad governance, dating back to the colonial era and continuing through to the present day. He questioned why the current administration seems to be opposing the citizens’ right to express their dissatisfaction, especially in light of the severe hardships that many are currently facing in the country.
Dr. Theophilus recalled how the All Progressives Congress (APC) government came to power in 2015, largely fueled by widespread protests against the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its failure to address critical issues such as rising insecurity, rampant unemployment, and pervasive corruption. He underscored that protests serve as a universal right for citizens, allowing them to draw the attention of those in authority to examine their conduct, programs, and policies, and to adjust them in favor of the overall development of the nation.
He further elaborated on the dire situation faced by the people of the Niger Delta, particularly those living in the hinterlands, stating that the hardship has reached unbearable levels. He highlighted that the price of a litre of fuel has skyrocketed to over N2,000, while a sachet of pure water now costs N100. Additionally, he pointed out that other essential commodities have become increasingly unaffordable for the average person, making daily life a struggle.
Dr. Theophilus expressed deep concern over the alarming trend of sudden deaths occurring in rural areas, attributing this tragic phenomenon to hunger and the untold suffering that many families are enduring. He emphasized the urgent need for action to address these critical issues that are impacting the well-being of the Niger Delta communities.
In light of the upcoming protest, Dr. Theophilus also took the opportunity to advise security agents to exercise caution in their approach to monitoring the event. He urged them not to be overzealous or brutal in their actions, as it is essential to maintain law and order while respecting the rights of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their views. The hope is that the protest will serve as a constructive platform for dialogue and change, rather than a source of conflict.
