President Muhammadu Buhari has appealed to the youths to
end street protests and participate in meaningful discussions with
the government aimed at comprehensive reforms to end all forms of
police brutality against Nigerians.
The President made the appeal at the maiden edition of the
National Youth Day celebration, observed on November 1, coinciding
with the African Youth Day celebration.
Against the backdrop of the recent protests against police
brutality in the country, leading to the disbandment of the Special
Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), President Buhari, who was represented by
the FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, told the gathering that the pleas
of Nigerian youths have been heard by his administration.
He added that the Federal Government “now wants to hear concrete
and practical ideas,” from the youths, while acknowledging their
constitutional right to peaceful protests.
“You must realize that protests cannot last indefinitely. My
government will not lift a hand to stop or suppress you.
“However, the fact of the matter is that other forces and actors
will seek to take over your protests that they may redirect them in
ways you did not intend and perhaps do not agree with.
“Every successful protest movement the world over has understood
that there comes a time when activity must move from the street to
the negotiation table. That time for you has come. Do not be afraid
of this reality. You should welcome it,” the minister was quoted to
have said in a statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to
the President Media & Publicity, Garba Shehu.
