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#FearlessInOctober Protest Experience Low turnout on Independence Day

The #FearlessInOctober protest sees a lower turnout, as demonstrators express dissatisfaction with President Tinubu's 30-day National Youth Confab
#FearlessInOctober Protest

The #FearlessInOctober protest experienced a significantly lower turnout across the Federal Capital Territory and other states due to the overwhelming presence of security forces. The protest, organized by the Take It Back Movement, sought to highlight economic difficulties and governance concerns. However, its momentum was hampered by President Bola Tinubu’s announcement of a 30-day National Youth Confab, mentioned during his Independence Day speech on October 1, 2024.

Tinubu’s youth conference aims to address the pressing issues facing Nigerian youth, who make up over 60% of the country’s population. The confab is set to focus on sectors such as education, employment, security, and innovation. The government assures that youth representatives will have a key role in shaping policies that directly impact them.

Despite this, the Take It Back Movement condemned the confab as a diversionary tactic. Juwon Sanyaolu, the group’s National Coordinator, called it a “jamboree,” suggesting that it was designed to placate the President’s allies rather than genuinely address economic hardship. Sanyaolu criticized Tinubu for making critical decisions like the removal of fuel subsidies without sufficient consultation, leaving Nigerians to suffer the consequences of rising costs.

In contrast, the government defended the initiative. Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, explained that the extended 30-day duration reflects Tinubu’s commitment to youth empowerment, with an implementation task force ready to enact actionable outcomes. Senate Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also weighed in, noting the confab’s value in providing structured youth engagement.

Despite government efforts, opposition groups, including the PDP and CUPP, questioned the timing and relevance of the confab, arguing that more pressing issues like economic instability and security concerns should take precedence.

Protesters remain undeterred, promising to announce new protest dates, as the government and opposing political factions continue their discourse on the confab’s utility.

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