Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has urged citizens to refrain from participating in potentially violent demonstrations, emphasizing the need for peace during the upcoming nationwide protest on August 1.
According to The PUNCH, Governor Oyebanji in a special state broadcast, warned against being influenced by those seeking to incite chaos under the guise of advocating for the common people.
The governor highlighted the detrimental effects of the 2020 EndSARS protests on the state, noting that Ekiti has yet to fully recover from the associated violence and destruction.
He reassured residents that security forces would be vigilant to prevent any disturbances, ensuring the safety and stability of the state.
Governor Oyebanji appealed to parents, guardians, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to dissuade youths from engaging in protests that could be hijacked by troublemakers.
He acknowledged the constitutional right to peaceful protest but stressed that such activities must not infringe on the rights and safety of others.
“Violence would be counterproductive at a time when efforts are being made to rejuvenate the economy,” he said, referencing the progress achieved through recent fiscal and monetary measures.
“We cannot afford a repeat of the 2020 destruction, which left many private and government properties in ruins and severely impacted businesses.”
The governor’s address underscored the importance of maintaining peace to safeguard the state’s progress and avoid setbacks in economic development.
