AKUDIANG COMFORT PIUS, Jos
The Coalition of Indigenous Youth Organizations in Plateau State on Wednesday back out from the Planned August 1st nation wide Protest over the current economic hardship in the country.
The spokesman of the group Comrade Paul Joshua Dekete and the Secretary Amb.Duwam Bosko while addressing newsmen in Jos at NUJ Secretariat in Jos emphasized on the need to consider the current state of the nation, especially concerning the economic challenges faced by citizens.
The coalition reflected on the troubling history of violence and insecurity that many communities in Plateau State, including Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Bokkos, Mangu, Riyom, and Jos South, have suffered and endured.
The coalition spokesman denounced the massacre of innocent villagers, particularly women and children in the recent past by unknown gun men in parts of Plateau and expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence, kidnapping, and banditry that continue to impoverish and displace various communities on the Plateau.
They highlighted the alarming rates of unemployment and substance abuse among the youths, noting that many are feeling despondent and disillusioned.
However, they recognized the recent efforts of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration as a glimmer of hope for peace and economic recovery in the state.
” While acknowledging the legitimate grievances that have led to the call for a nationwide protest on August 1st, the coalition urged the citizens of Plateau State to refrain from participating in the upcoming demonstration.
They cited unique security challenges that could further endanger their communities and exacerbate existing tensions.
“The economic hardship we face in Plateau State is compounded by the sustained persecution our people have suffered for decades,”
The coalition spokesman stated that “Participating in the nationwide protest could unwittingly allow our oppressors to inflict further harm, bloodshed, and chaos upon our peace-loving communities.”
On the way forward, the Coalition of Indigenous Youth Organizations reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and tranquility in Plateau State.
They also praised the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Caleb Mutfwang in taking responsible steps to alleviate the suffering of the populace and stabilize the economy.
The coalition called on all Plateau youths to withdraw from the nationwide protest and urged government officials at all levels to continue to implement policies that focuses on the well-being of the citizens, including direct interventions in critical sectors such as oil and gas, food production, transportation, energy, and youth empowerment.
They recommended a review of fuel pricing, advocate against reinstating fuel subsidies, and called for the dismissal of individuals within the oil and gas sector whose actions exacerbate insecurity.
The coalition spokesman expressed commitment to support vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons, orphans, And widows, and called for expanded government and NGO initiatives to assist these communities.
He affirmed their belief in constitutional rights, including the right to protest and maintained that the current security landscape poses significant risks.
They also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint a minister from Plateau State to represent the people of Plateau state at federal executive Council.
