A group, the Niger Delta Young Leaders Forum, has announced its withdrawal from the ongoing nationwide protests.
The National Chairman of the group, Chief Imo Okoko, announced this in a statement released in Abuja.
“Our young leaders of the Niger Delta region scattered across the country, we appreciate the solidarity shown us throughout this most trying period of our collective quest for good governance and a better standard of living for all Nigerians.
“It will be recalled that before Aug. 1, we had repeatedly voiced the pains, anger, and frustration of our people over the soaring prices of almost every food item and essential commodities in the country.
“We equally forewarned of our readiness to join the planned protest, if nothing concrete was put on the ground to cushion the hardship we are experiencing.
“We salute the courage of all our members and associates who have trouped out in their hundreds and thousands to solidarise with and support the protesters nationwide.
“Your sacrifices and the risks you have taken shall never go unrewarded, as both humanity and divinity have taken records accordingly,” Okoko said
He said after Day 5 of the nationwide protests, it had become imperative to take stock and do an objective review of the progress made and the situation on ground.
The chairman of the group praised the protesters for showing a high level of civility and maturity thus far and also expressed appreciation to the security operatives for exhibiting professionalism in managing the protesters.
According to him, no government in recent history has tolerated protests and accommodated the magnitude of public confrontations in such a manner.
He lauded the Presidency for the maturity it exhibited in managing the protests even in the heat of the moment.
He also applauded the government for the sustained empathy it showed in acknowledging the pains and hardships the people are facing.
Okoko then appealed to the youth for more patience and time for the government to implement the various policies and programmes it has designed to remedy the situation.
He commended the leadership of the Civil Society Council for brokering the resolution and applauded its members for the remarkable show of solidarity and loyalty.
Niger Delta Forum opts out of nationwide protests
