#EndSARS: “It is time to retreat to avoid hijacking” – Ooni of Ife Pleads to Protesters

The Ooni of Ife has urged the #EndSARs protesters to suspend the protest in order to give the government a chance to fully attend to their demands.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Monday, while hosting the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, appealed to the EndSARS protesters across the country to retreat.

Ooni described the #EndSARS protests as a clear message by the Nigerian youth to the government, particularly on the coordinated manner in which the protests were being organised, both in Nigeria and beyond.

“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 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 with 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.

“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 government from using force,” the royal father said.

On the recent attack on Governor Gboyega Oyetola’s convoy by some hoodlums at the venue of #EndSARS protest in Osogbo, the Ooni described the incidence as unfortunate.

“It is sad and we cannot but condemn it, as it is against the ethos of ‘Omoluabi’ for which we are known in Osun.

“Similarly, I want to commend Mr. Governor for the maturity which he has displayed in the handling of this sensitive issue, notwithstanding the provocation.

“It shows him as a father that he is. May God continue to protect him,” the Ooni said.