Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo has begged Nigerians, particularly youths in the state, to shun the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protests slated to begin on August 1.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, at a stakeholder meeting with some youth groups and student leaders in the state, said no responsible government would want a repetition of the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which resulted in loss of lives and properties. 

“Do not underestimate anyone; stay vigilant, engage with the community, and convey to our people that protests are unnecessary; dialogue is the best approach.

“We should all avoid a protest that could lead to destruction of lives and property as this might worsen our economic situation. The EndSARS protest that was hijacked by hoodlums is still fresh in our memories,” he said. 

In 2020, Nigerians, mostly youths, started a nationwide movement tagged #EndSARS, protesting against police brutality and extrajudicial killing by the disbanded Special Anti-robbery Squad of the Nigeria Police Force.

Th governor assured the youths that their welfare remains a priority, with promises of greater inclusion in his administration.

Mr Aiyedatiwa also urged Nigerians to be more patient with the President Bola Tinubu-led government, stressing that all indications point in the direction of an improved economy that would alleviate the challenges of the people.

He explained that Mr Tinubu’s administration had beautiful plans to improve the living conditions of Nigerians. 

“Development thrives in a peaceful environment; let us all be united and collectively tackle the prevailing economic hardship confronting the nation,” the governor added.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, however, appealed to the sponsors of the nationwide protest to seek a more peaceful option and approach that would promote development, national peace and political stability.