Protest: Listen to the demands of the youths – Obasanjo tells Nigerian Govt

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to listen to the demands and concerns of the youth which necessitated the nationwide protests.

Obasanjo made the call on Friday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, while playing host to six members of the National Assembly.

The ex-Nigerian leader said what the youth were seeking through the nationwide protests was legitimate, stressing that there could be dire consequences if their demands were not met as soon as possible.

The six lawmakers are co-sponsors of a bill seeking a single six-year term for presidency and rotation between the North and the South.

Obasanjo urged the Federal Government to listen to the youth and not treat their concerns with levity.

“You are what you are today because you’re a Nigerian; I’m what I am also because I’m a Nigerian. So why should they be Nigerians and be languishing in poverty?

“They make demands and we’re not listening to them. Many of them are frustrated, desperate, angry, and unemployed. What do we expect?”

Obasanjo noted that for Nigeria to attain its highest status, all hands must be on deck, just as “our mentality should also change”

According to him, the issue is not whether the country should adopt a single six-year term or maintain the status quo.

If the mentality of the people in governance does not change, then Nigeria will remain where it is, he stressed.