Mr Solomon Akwashiki, a lawmaker representing Lafia Central Constituency at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, has advised youths to avoid being used as destructive agents by desperate individuals or groups.
Akwashiki, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, made the statement on Monday during a visit to Mr Abdullahi Bala, General Manager of the Nasarawa State Youth Empowerment Scheme (NAYES), at his office in Lafia.
He emphasized that while the constitution supports peaceful protests, they must not be used as a cover for violence or property destruction.
“Protest is constitutional, but taking advantage of the protest to kill or destroy other people’s property is criminal, and as a government, we condemn it, and we will never encourage that,” Akwashiki said.
He urged the youths in the state and the country at large to embrace peace and exercise patience with the current government.
“The government is fully aware of the plights being faced by Nigerians and, in no distant time, it will come out with more measures that will reduce the pains,” he said.
Akwashiki also called on parents to monitor their children and discourage them from engaging in ongoing nationwide protests, warning that they could turn violent.
“The youths should always embrace peace and be supportive of the government of Gov. Abdullahi Sule because he is doing a lot in the state through his developmental projects. Let us continue to give him support to succeed,” he advised.
The lawmaker commended the general manager, management, and staff of NAYES for their efforts and urged them to maintain positive synergy with all arms of government to ensure good governance in the state.
Akwashiki revealed that the state assembly is working to review the existing law establishing the scheme for better results.
“The bill, if it finally becomes a law, will ensure improved welfare of NAYES staff and empower them through skills acquisition,” he said.
In response, Bala appreciated the lawmaker for his visit and the assembly’s efforts at renewing the law that established NAYES, aiming to make it more active and effective.
He assured his agency’s commitment to collaborating with the assembly for quality service delivery and to working within the law for the overall development of the state.
