As the nationwide protests scheduled for August 1, 2024 approaches, authorities of Kajola Local Government of Oyo State, under the Chairmanship of Hon. Akeem Olawale Mustapha Esq has summoned an expanded security meeting to forestall the breakdown of law and order.
The all encompassing security meeting came up at the Conference Room of the Local Government Secretariat, Meseole, Okeho.
In his speech at the meeting, the Chairman of Kajola Local Government, Honourable Akeem Olawale Mustapha appealed to stakeholders to convey the message to residents of the council area not to engage in any acts of violence that could lead to chaos.
While emphasizing that the protests ought to be peaceful and not be used as an excuse for theft, vandalisation and troublemaking, the council boss reminded the public of the devastating aftermath of previous violent protests, noting that some individuals were still struggling to recover from the damages.
He enjoined all the stakeholders to go home and disseminate the goodwill message of the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde that our country, Nigeria will surmount the current economic challenges and come out stronger.
In their separate contributions, representatives of security angencies – Police, DSS, NSCDC, Operation Burst, Immigration, FRSC, Amotekun and others said the protests should remain peaceful and do not become an opportunity for looting or causing more havoc for the common man.
Other contributors at the meeting, including the Onjo of Okeho land and Chairman of the Local Government’s Traditional Council, Oba ( Dr ) Alhaji Rafiu Osuolale Mustapha Adeiitan 11; Elero of Ilero land, Oba ( Alhaji ) Wasiu Oyedele Saka Olokolonigi 11; Chairman of the Local Government’s chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria ( CAN ) Reverend T. O. Awoyale; representative of the Chief Imam of Okeho land, Alhaji Raji Muili; the Iyaloja, Chief ( Mrs ) Afusat Adebiyi; representative of the Park Management System ( PMS ) in the Local Government, Mr. Nureni Agoro and the representative of Block Moulders’ Association, Alhaji Kamil Arowolo emphasized the importance of the meeting.
They urged stakeholders at the meeting to pass across the messages to the government without resorting to chaos or violence, with a common ground that residents, particularly youths should concentrate on conveying their grievances peacefully and constructively in order to avert protests that could lead to breakdown of law and order in the society.
The crucial meeting was well attended by security operatives, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, women groups, youth leaders, student representatives, transporters, artisans, traders, market men and women, school administrators; as well as representatives of Igbo community and other non indigenous ethnic groups.
