Abuja, Nigeria
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has appealed to youths in the nation’s political capital not to participate in the planned August #EndBadGovernance protest against hunger and economic hardship in the country.
Last week reacting to a letter on the use of Eagles Square for protest, Wike boasted that he would not allow any protest in the FCT.
Some youths vowed to stage a rally at Eagle Square next month if the minister decides to release or not release the space.
However, on Monday, Channels TV reported the minister appeared to have made a U-turn while speaking at a town hall meeting with youth stakeholders in the Bwari Area Council of the FCT.
He urged the youth to talk about their grievances and shelve the planned nationwide protest.
In his welcome remarks, the FCT minister appreciated those present at the town hall for embracing dialogue, saying the president would continue to do his best to move the nation forward.
Wike also announced that the President has approved the creation of a youth secretariat in the FCT Administration (FCTA) and police stations in each area council in the nation’s capital.
He called on youths in all the area councils to shun the protest and embrace dialogue, assuring them that things would improve soon.
Present at the town hall meeting were, the chairmen of area councils, traditional rulers, religious bodies, and representatives of women and youth groups were present at the meeting.
