In a proactive move to address rising tensions within the community, Chairman of the Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon Rasaq Ajala (HRA), convened a crucial meeting with community stakeholders this afternoon.
The focus of the discussion was the proposed nationwide protests, stirring significant discourse amongst residents.
HRA expressed his nuanced stance on the situation. “While I am not averse to protests, which I have participated in in the past, the potential for peaceful demonstrations to escalate into violence is exceedingly high,” he stated.
During the meeting, the council boss drew upon past experiences and recent events to underscore the importance of non-violent engagement.
He reminded attendees of the devastating consequences that unfolded during the “ENDSARS” protests with significant destruction across various parts of Nigeria.
He also cited the ongoing turmoil in Kenya and Rwanda as cautionary examples of how quickly peaceful protests can devolve into chaos.
“I appealed to the people to engage with the government through dialogue rather than taking to the streets,” Hon. Ajala emphasized. “We must remember the level of destruction caused by previous protests and strive to find more constructive ways to voice our concerns.”
The meeting was attended by a diverse group of community leaders as well as securitymen. Concerned residents came together to deliberate on the best path forward.
Many shared HRA’s concerns about the potential for violence and the long-term impact on the community’s stability and development.
One community leader remarked, “We acknowledge the need to express our grievances, but we must also consider the safety and well-being of our community. Dialogue could be a more effective route to achieving our goals without the collateral damage that protests have historically caused.”