Nigeria Can’t Afford Another #EndSARS Protest — Sanwo-Olu and Oyebanji 

Peaceful Protesters-ARDNig

Ahead of the planned nationwide protest, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State have stressed that Nigeria cannot afford a repeat of the #EndSARS protests. Sanwo-Olu highlighted that Lagos has not fully recovered from the destruction caused during the #EndSARS protests in 2020. He urged residents to opt for peaceful demonstrations instead of violent protests, which could harm the state’s progress and economy. 

Sanwo-Olu’s Warning to Lagosians 

Sanwo-Olu reminded Lagos residents of the significant damage during the #EndSARS protests, including the destruction of court buildings, police stations, and other public properties. He emphasized that violent protests will only roll back the state’s progress and create further economic challenges. 

Oyebanji’s Plea to Ekiti Youths 

Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti also appealed to the youth to avoid being used by troublemakers. He recalled the damage to public infrastructure during the #EndSARS protests, which the state is still struggling to repair. Oyebanji warned that blocking roads and preventing the distribution of goods and services will worsen the current economic situation. 

We cannot afford to revisit the chaos of the #EndSARS protests. Let’s channel our grievances through peaceful means and safeguard our state’s progress and unity.— Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State 

Court Restricts Protests in Ogun State 

An Ogun State High Court has limited the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests to four locations and restricted the protest times from 8 am to 5 pm. This order aims to ensure that protests are conducted peacefully and within designated areas. 

Security Measures in Ondo and Lagos 

In Ondo State, security agencies are prepared to ensure peace during the protests. The Police Commissioner, Abayomi Oladipo, assured that lawful protests would be protected from being hijacked by hoodlums. Similarly, the Lagos Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) warned that any act of vandalism during the protests would not be tolerated. 

University of Lagos-ARDNig

UNILAG Postpones Exams 

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has postponed its ongoing second-semester exams due to the planned protests. The management urged students and staff to remain calm and security-conscious, emphasizing the importance of safety during this period. 

In conclusion, while the right to protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy, both Governors Sanwo-Olu and Oyebanji emphasize the need for these demonstrations to remain peaceful and constructive. The lessons from the #EndSARS protests serve as a stark reminder of the potential for devastation and setbacks that violent protests can bring. As Nigeria faces ongoing economic and social challenges, it is crucial for citizens to express their concerns in a manner that promotes dialogue and progress without endangering the stability and growth of the nation. The proactive measures taken by the courts and security agencies aim to ensure that the upcoming protests do not lead to a repeat of the past turmoil.