The nationwide hunger protest in Osun State came to a halt on Tuesday, Day 6, after protesters presented their demands to the state government.
The protesters, led by Ajala Adetunji David, were received by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi at the Government Secretariat in Osogbo. Accompanied by top government officials, David presented the protesters’ demands, marking a significant breakthrough in the demonstration.
Following the presentation, the protesters announced the suspension of the hunger protest, bringing an end to the six-day demonstration. The move indicates a willingness to engage in dialogue and explore peaceful resolution channels.
The Osun State government’s willingness to listen to the protesters’ demands has been hailed as a positive step towards addressing the grievances of the people. The outcome of the negotiations and the government’s response to the demands remain to be seen.
The Deputy Governor who assured the protesters that their demands would be met, also commended the protesters for conducting themselves peacefully in the last six days of the protest.
Upon assurance by the state government that it will address their demands would be met, the protesters dispersed at the Olaiya intersession.
At a press conference after the protest, Ajala declared that the protest has suspended in the state and assured that the leaders of civil societies would keep following up with government on the demands.
According to the organizers, “We, the Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens, the organizing body of the EndBadGovernance protest in Osun State, which began on the 1st of August 2024 and marks its 6th day today, have made our demands clear, seeking immediate action from our leaders to address the pressing issues affecting the citizens of our beloved state and country.
“Today, we successfully presented our demands to the Governor of Osun State through the deputy governor and secretary to the state government who told us that the governor will forward our demands to the federal executive Council.
“Furthermore, we reviewed the security situation vis-a- vis the Osun Osogbo festival presently ongoing at Osogbo. It is worthy of note to establish that protest is incidentally taking place in Osogbo which is of concern.
“Considering the safety of the influx of tourists coming for the global Osun osogbo festival and the possibility of hoodlums disguising as tourist and unleashing attacks on peaceful protesters amidst other security concerns, we consider it imperative to put the protest on hold today 6th August, 2024.
“While we salute the courage of peaceful protesters, we urge concerned citizens to remain resolute on our demands and continue to ventilate the same while planning for the next stage of the struggle should incase the demands are not meant. We urge the government to act promptly and decisively on the issues we have raised.
“The Coalition will remain vigilant and committed to ensuring that our demands are met while we call on all participants and supporters to stay united and await further updates on the progress of our engagement with the government.
“We thank the people of Osun State and all Nigerians for their unwavering support and commitments to the cause of justice and good governance. Let us continue to advocate for a better Nigeria with peace and dignity.”
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