Date: 26th January, 2018
Venue: 53, Nile Crescent, Suncity Estate, Abuja.
Gentlemen of the Press,
Introduction.
It is a popular movement with traction in the FCT and all 36 states of the Federation, raising the bar in the advocacy for vigour, positive exuberance and new ideas- all of which are embodied by the youths, to take centre-place in the nation's political running. Our primary objective is to change the narrative and enforce necessary change in the leadership constitution of Nigeria, with the youths constituency ably represented in power and the nation's political affairs.
In line with our stated objectives, we have been at the vanguard of the advocacy for a better and more fulfilling Nigeria and taken the pain to educate our immediate and remote society on the need to be politically and socially conscious. Our engagements have been several and serial, we've held talk workshops, mentorship seminars and partnered with firms of national and international repute to shape up a more robust discuss and case for the inclusion of youths in more active roles in the nation's political set-up. All of the above are premised on the need to play an active role in shaping up Nigeria into a modern nation-state, envied for its unyielding progress and innovation.
We at Youth Lead Nigeria have, however, observed with much apprehension and concern the state of affairs and trends in Nigeria- both individualistic and institutional trends, by so-called ordinary members of the public and it's 1% elite class that threaten the fragile foundation of our union, it's unity and, most importantly, the peaceful and harmonious co-existence of its diverse citizenry. It is only fit, therefore, and as prefects of a new Nigeria, that we take a stand on pertinent issues and admonish erring members of the public accordingly, as serialised in no particular order below :
State of the Nation Address.
1. On General Olusegun Obasanjo's Open Letter to President Muhammadu Buhari.
We read with appreciation former President, Olusegun Obasanjo 's open letter to Mr.President advising him against seeking reelection in next year's presidential election. Our position is that General Olusegun Obasanjo, having served in twice in said capacity and once as a military Head of State, is preeminently qualified to speak on the issues he raised, and present a scorecard- favourable or not against the President Buhari-led goverment. We advise that Mr. President duly consider the issues raised and weigh his options and choice of action in light of what best serves the interest of the nation.
We are particularly surprised that the president's body language has in recent times revealed that he would likely contest the 2019 election and several governors are urging him to do. The question is should this be the priority of the ruling party now at a time when there is so much insecurity and hardship in the country? We are in doubt of the patriotism of the group of leaders.
We make bold to say we are ready to join to the third force to liberate our country from the total collapse. Our organisation shall begin to mobilise youths across the country to make this a reality.
2. On the Arrest of former Secretary to the Federal Government, Babachir Lawal.
Let it be stated emphatically that we consider the recent arrest of Mr. Babachir Lawal as worthy of applause, and long overdue. There are no sacred cows in Nigeria, and in due course every economic and political antagonist must be made to face justice. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission must be commended for doing the needful and continuing to be a stand-out crime-fighting agency in Nigeria.
We are, however, not oblivious to the suspect timing of his arrest coming on the heels of General Olusegun Obasanjo 's Open Letter to President Buhari and the public reactions raised by it. There is the temptation to dismiss his arrest therefore as a political plot to distract from the serious claims against this goverment in said letter. While this theory gains traction amongst the general populace, we charge the EFCC to prove it's critics wrong by going for all political criminals regardless of party affiliations that populate the corridors of power.
3. On the prevalent Security Challenges in the Country.
As a nation we have continued to suffer the inadequacy of our security outfits as bloodthirsty hoodlums, herdsmen, terrorist groups or sects continue on bloody rampage unchecked. In certain parts of the country, our fellow country men go to sleep half-awake, ever mindful of their hapless exposure to real threats to their lives and properties.
The success of these crimes is a negative commentary particularly on the capacity of the Nigerian Police Force and its sister agencies. It is no doubt time for Mr. President to summarily dismiss the Inspector General of Police, Idris Kpotun, whose lack of initiative and demonstrated incompetence threatens the police institution.
4. On the Not Too Young to Run Bill.
Before the National Assembly, the bill sponsored to promote popular youth inclusion in politics continues to suffer neglect. This is a terrible development that members of the legislature must make haste to resolve. Given the opportunity, the youths in Nigeria will deliver on democratic dividends as they are duly equipped with the vigour, passion and sense of service to take on more political responsibilities.
5. On General Governance and the Political Process.
As stated earlier, our position on this present goverment is that it is simply not doing enough to meet the exigencies of the country. The Buhari administration 's only bite have been on social media, where it seems to have invested it's time and resource to raise an army of propagandists and e-soldiers to confuse and misdirect any thorough scrutiny and critic of its actions.
We are yet to take delivery of the several democratic dividends promised us, just as nepotism and structural gerontocracy- which is goverment by the severely aged, continue to be the order of the day. This disparity between words and action cannot be allowed to continue, as the time to act is now and never later.
Conclusion.
The Youth Lead Nigeria Movement remain committed to the path of true democracy and better governance. Our position is also that the goverment ought to be proactive and resourceful in conflict resolution and attending to the economic aspiration of the country.
It is our deep conviction that our woes as a nation are not beyond redemption-a task that places as much demand on the government as on the governed. Enough cannot be said about the need for youths to be allowed ample input, and by input we mean take on leadership roles in several capacities, as a necessary measure towards achieving balanced governance. Youths are sure to inject fresh ideas and new spirit, new drive and sure strength as the nation's ship of affairs is steered towards more better times.
As we all do our bits, especially you media-men, rightfully referred to as the Fourth Estate and curators of truth, it is our conviction that Nigeria will yet again be a nation with proud and fulfilled citizens.
Thank you.
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