Lagos Students Shun Nationwide Protest, Plan Solidarity Walk

Students of some tertiary institutions in Lagos State have resolved to embark on a solidarity walk rather than joining a nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10.

The students, however, distanced themselves from the planned nationwide protest by some Nigerians, tagged ‘#EndBad Governance in Nigeria,’ to draw the attention of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to the plight of Nigerians.

The students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students in Lagos, said the “Solidarity Walk” would be held to support Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whom they said had been of great support to them.

Speaking to journalists during a press conference at the Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja, after a joint meeting, student leaders across tertiary institutions in Lagos said their solidarity walk would also be held from August 1 to 10 to drum for peace, especially to ensure that the ugly incident of #EndSARS of 2020 does not repeat itself.

The chairman, NANS, Lagos axis, Lekan Alimi, described the planned nationwide protests against hardship in the country as “absolutely uncalled for.”

Alimi said rather than joining the protest, students would prefer constructive dialogue with governments in achieving collective goals.

He said, “In these trying times, it is crucial that we remember the importance of stability, peace, and constructive dialogue in achieving our collective goals. Given these significant contributions and the progress we have witnessed, we strongly state that we are not in support of any protest against the government of Lagos.

“We understand the frustrations and challenges faced by many, but we must also recognise the advancements and opportunities that have been provided to cushion the economic effect of the nation, and we hope other states can emulate the Lagos State Government.

“We cannot afford to let the destructive events of the past, such as the EndSARS protests, repeat themselves. Our priority is to defend and preserve the peace and prosperity of Lagos. “

He urged all students to channel their energies into constructive dialogue and positive action, such as volunteering for community development projects, participating in student-government initiatives, and engaging in academic and extracurricular activities that promote excellence.

He noted: “As a demonstration of our support for the Lagos State Government and our commitment to peace and stability, we announce our intention to hold a Solidarity Walk in support of the government.

“We plan to hold this walk from the 1st to the 10th of August, 2024, coinciding with the proposed dates of a planned protest by some unknown individuals. We will not let the voices of discord and destruction drown out our message of unity and progress.

“We invite all students, youth organisations, and well-meaning citizens to join us on this walk as we show our appreciation for the government’s efforts and our commitment to a brighter future for Lagos. Together, we can make a difference!”

Those present at the news conference included the President of the National Association of Lagos State Students, Hafiz Olufowobi; Chairman, National Association of University Students (Lagos Chapter), Miracle Yemoh; Assistant General Secretary (South-West), National Association of Polytechnic Students, Zainab Yakub; Chairman, National Female Students Association of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), Titilayo Ekindayo; and presidents of the Students Union of Tertiary Institutions in the state.