Bongos Ikwue Urges Nigerian Government to Address Youth Demands and Embrace Protesters’ Actions.
Dr. Bongos Ikwue, a renowned Nigerian musician, has called on the government to address the demands of protesting youths and the broader public, emphasizing the need for responsiveness and engagement in the face of recent #EndBadGovernance protests.
In his statement, Ikwue highlighted a significant shift in Nigerian society, where modern-day citizens are increasingly holding their leaders accountable. He stressed that this trend reflects a departure from past complacency, pointing out that poor governance extends beyond politics into various sectors, including homes, communities, and religious organizations.
Ikwue urged government officials at all levels to be open and accommodating of both the protesters and their actions, framing them as essential components of a democratic system of checks and balances. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging and addressing the grievances of the youth and the general populace, noting that the state of the youth is often indicative of the nation’s future.
The musician expressed his readiness to collaborate with local, state, and federal governments to engage youths in a meaningful manner. He underscored the need for proper guidance, support, and opportunities for the younger generation to contribute positively to the country’s development.
Ikwue also noted the prevailing hardships in Nigeria, attributing some of these difficulties to the recent increase in fuel prices, which has impacted various aspects of daily life. He empathized with the struggles faced by Nigerians, including issues like hunger, insecurity, and a failing healthcare system.
In his advice to the youth, Ikwue encouraged them to seek constructive solutions to societal challenges and avoid violence or illegal means of acquiring wealth. He urged them to utilize available resources and opportunities effectively.
To address the country’s difficulties, Ikwue suggested several measures, including:
Promoting the use of CNG-powered and electric vehicles, along with establishing filling stations for these alternatives.
Implementing affordable mass transit options, including tricycles.
Providing support to charity shops offering food at reduced prices.
Upgrading national security infrastructure, particularly in poorly governed areas.
Creating meaningful programs to empower young people.
Ensuring purposeful leadership training.
Intensifying efforts to combat corruption within both government and society.
Ikwue also called for improved communication between the government and the public to foster better mutual understanding and address the concerns of the citizens effectively.