The Southern Youths Development Forum has urged youths across the country to shun the planned nationwide protest, saying that it is not the solution to Nigeria’s economic challenges.

The national president of the forum, Pastor Bassey James, who gave the admonition during a press conference in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital, on Tuesday, July 30, appealed for dialogue rather than protest.

James described President Bola Tinubu as a listening and responsive leader who is ready to dialogue with the youths of the country to seek ways to improve the economy, alleviate hardship, and pursue national development.

He said: “We are opposed to the protest because of the fear that disgruntled people will hijack the protest and cause crisis, mayhem, and destruction of critical national assets which will further compound the problems in the country.

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“The tension across the nation is high and patriotism demands that we come together in a time like this to preach peace, unity, and love in the overall interest of Nigeria.

“We are already planning a national youth dialogue which will be kickstarted in Abuja, Uyo, Kaduna, and Lagos. It is better to talk, discuss, and build a united Nigeria for the benefit of all and ensure equal opportunities.”

Speaking further, the president of the group contended that if the protest is allowed there will be massive economic losses, suffering, and violence which will be a setback in the country.

He said: “Most businesses are yet to recover from Endsars protests of 2020. Even the government has not fully rebuilt the infrastructures destroyed then and this one will compound the issues.”

James said that Tinubu’s administration has good intentions for the country, assuring that things will change for best under him because he is pro-masses, and has fought for and supported democracy over the years.

“Mr President is putting in place a sustainable economic blueprint which is a work in progress, the indicators are visible in security, human resources development, infrastructures, agricultural education, and other areas.

“However some of the good things will take some time, a few months to actualize. It is not possible for a government that is only a year to do all the things, but Nigerians can see the sincerity of purpose in this administration”, he maintained.