The Ekiti State commissioner of police Akinwale Kunle Adeniran announced during a Stakeholder Emergency security meeting on Monday in Ado-Ekiti, that Ekiti residents should refrain from participating in the nationwide protest.
He stated, we oppose the protest in Ekiti because, historically, protests in Nigeria have started off peacefully and have become violent.
“We heard and read that some people all over the country including Ekiti state are planning to stage protest which they call a peaceful protest but from the history of protest in Nigeria, there is no protest that won’t be hijacked by hoodlums if not well managed”.
“Coupled with the security situation and economic situation in Nigeria.
“Nigeria has witnessed so many protests and it ends in looting, killing and robbing like the one in 2020 during ENDSARS”
Additionally, the governor of Ekiti State was represented by S.A. security, who spoke during the meeting and stated that they are aware of and working to address the issues facing the nation.
He also begged the parties involved to be patient and let Ekiti State enjoy peace.
“Let’s bear with the government, the problems can not be solved in one day. The government has put a lot of measures to ensure we live peacefully in the state and allow the measures to mature before you can assess if the government is doing well or not”.
The head of CAN, the state information commissioner for Ekiti, and a Muslim community representative are also in favour of putting an end to the demonstration.
Other stakeholders offered their suggestions throughout the meeting.
The representatives of students, Comrade Taiwo said “if you really do not want us to do the protest, let the government do the needful”
Hon Damola representative of youths “I understand that protest is a way to speak out however the security agencies should not start any problem but protect”.
Adekunle, also a representative of students “protest is not the best answer but they should allow Nigeria to be better, students can’t eat 3 good meals in a day”
Hence, the CP makes a plea to the involved parties, young people, and students to engage with the Ekiti people in order to dissuade them from protesting while the government takes care of the pressing problems.
