In the wake of police dispersing peaceful protesters with tear gas in Abuja's Maitama area, Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has emphasized the constitutional right of Nigerian youths to engage in peaceful demonstrations.
Speaking at the 2025 Annual Management Conference of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Olawande stated, "Everyone has the right to protest. In fact, if I had the time, I would join the protest myself. There is freedom of expression for all."
The minister highlighted that protests serve as a vital platform for citizens to convey their concerns to leaders. However, he urged demonstrators to maintain non-violence and avoid damaging public or private property. "Such acts of violence will not be tolerated by the government," Olawande added..
Earlier in the day, members of the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society organizations gathered in Abuja to protest issues including the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act and the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The protesters were met with tear gas from police forces aiming to disperse the crowd.
The federal government has reiterated its support for citizens' right to protest but cautioned against the destruction of national infrastructure during demonstrations.
As tensions persist, the government calls for dialogue and peaceful engagement to address the grievances of Nigerian youths.
By Iku faith John
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