From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Yoruba community in Sokoto State has called for restraint against plans by some youths across the country to embark on nationwide protests over the state of the economy.
This is contained in a press statement signed by the President General of the Yoruba community in the state, Chief James Olorunfemi, and made available to newsmen in the state on Wednesday.
The statement titled: ”A call for restraint peace and unity by Yoruba Community in Sokoto and the Northwest States with regards to the called for a national protest.
“The Yoruba community Sokoto and the Northwest States, under the leadership of Chief James Olorunfemi Deputy President General Yoruba Community Northwest State and President General Yoruba Community Sokoto issue this press statement to appeal for calm and ignore the upcoming protest in Nigeria slated for August 1 2024.
“To be sure, we understand the grievances, we acknowledge the concerns and frustration which is the driving force for the plan protect, the economic desperation has bitten heard over everyone, but we appeal to the public to give the present administration a chance to continue the process of economic recovery.
“Labour unions and trade unions thought it wise to reason with the Government by accepting 70,000 naira as the minimum wage for the Nigeria Government and there are other promises among which is the continued reviewing of the minimum wages every three years.
The statement further warned against the repeat of the recent EndSars protest which also brought the country to its knees. “EndSars protest should be a source of chilling reminder for us as to what a protest of this nature can cause and the possibilities of things being hijacked by disgruntled actors to cause mayhem.
“Unity and peaceful coexistence among all strata of the societies as a Yoruba community domiciled in the Northwest States and the North at large, we are known for peace and unity and tranquil harmony as our core culture and values.
“Needless to say though the president is for all Nigerians we are privileged to have produced the president this time, we believe constant dialogue engagement, and collaboration with the current administration should be the solution.
“Dialogue and collaboration should be the only solution to the nation’s crises, Labour unions and Trade unions managed it before they got to 70,000 nairas as the new minimum wage”.
The statement however calls on parties involved to work towards peaceful resolutions, shun violence and prioritize national unity for progress peace and development.