The apex body promoting the interests on Yoruba-speaking people of Kogi state, Okun Development Association (ODA), has expressed concerns over prevalence of hunger and anger across the nation, which has led to ongoing protests.
In a statement signed by the President General, Ambassador Akenson Rotimi, ODA said it recognizes protests as an inalienable and fundamental right of Nigerian citizens.
However, the Association decried the violence, killings, looting, and destruction of public infrastructure that have accompanied these demonstrations.
The association urged the government to engage more effectively with citizens to help them understand the ongoing reforms by the federal government.
“It is crucial for the government to accelerate its economic development programs aimed at uplifting the living conditions of Nigerians.
“Furthermore, the government should ensure that the dividends of democracy are delivered to the people in more practical terms and create more productive avenues for economic engagement, particularly for Nigerian youths,” the statement read.
While applauding measures put in place by the Kogi State government to ensure a violence-free atmosphere during this period, ODA encourages the government to continue delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
ODA called on Nigerians to eschew violence as a form of expression.
