#EndSARS: Youths Have What It Takes To Rule Nigeria - Ooni Of Ife

The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, believes that Nigerian youths have what it takes to rule the country.

The Ooni stated this when he received former President Olusegun Obasanjo at his palace in Ile-Ife on Monday.

Ogunwusi appealed to the youths to "retreat", adding that he was proud of what had been done so far in communicating their grievances to the government.

He said, “If you look at the #EndSARS protest, you will see that our youths have what it takes to rule the country.

“Since day one, they have shown leadership, accountability, and a huge sense of responsibility which have sent a clear message to the government.

“Every day at 11:50 pm, they displayed their financial update, and to me, I’m highly amazed by their sense of accountability.

“As a youth leader myself, I am proud that we all have communicated our ideas and it is heartwarming that we have been heard.

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“Dear youths, it is time to retreat so as to prevent those with ulterior motives from hijacking the peaceful message of peace.

“The whole world is aware of our peaceful conduct and we must not let some bad elements tarnish this enviable integrity.

“Once again, I wish to urge our youths to stop the protest, for now, and give peace a chance. This will prevent the government from using force.”

What Obasanjo Said

Former President Obasanjo said that the youths were fighting for their lives.

He said that most of the Nigerian population consisted of youths who are "aspiring" for the best life.

He said, “More than 65 percent of our population is under within the ages of 18 and 30; they are not only struggling to acquire education, they are also aspiring for the best that life can offer them,” Obasanjo said.

“Some of them didn’t even get educated, while those who are educated are getting frustrated because of lack of opportunities. We must realize that the lid on the boiling steam would have to be removed.

“But, I believe that there are windows of opportunity which the government can explore to show that it cares about the people’s welfare, especially the youth, as the father of the country and particularly, as the father of the youth.

“Fortunately, the president has children and he knows how youths behave. I believe that the opportunities can still be taken to let the youth know that he, as a father, understands their plight and that his government understands their plight and he is ready to make life better for them.”