A coalition of youths in Plateau State on Saturday submitted a charter of demands to Governor Caleb Mutfwang in Jos, calling for both state and federal government actions. The charter is expected to be forwarded to President Bola Tinubu.
The submission followed widespread protests across major streets in Jos, largely driven by youths. However, the peaceful demonstrations were marred when hoodlums hijacked the protests, leading to looting and destruction of both public and private properties. In response, the state government imposed a 24-hour curfew on the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.
Presenting the charter on behalf of the youths, Mr. Sam Ode outlined the demands, emphasizing that both the state and federal governments needed to take immediate action.
“For the state government, we demand an immediate reduction in the cost of governance. We also require a transparent explanation of how the various palliatives and funds from the federal government are being utilized,” Ode stated.
He added, “We urge the state government to implement the new minimum wage recently signed into law by the president and to reduce tuition fees at tertiary institutions.”
Addressing the federal government, Ode called on President Tinubu to take decisive action against corruption, reduce the fuel pump price to N300, and reverse the recent increase in electricity tariffs.
“We also demand that the federal government cuts the cost of governance, reopens all national borders, and embarks on comprehensive judicial reforms,” Ode added.
Ode emphasized that the demands reflected the will of the people, aimed at paving a sustainable path for national development. “We are not rebelling against the government,” he clarified.
In response, Governor Mutfwang thanked the protesters for maintaining peace throughout the demonstrations and promised to forward their demands to President Tinubu.
The governor assured the youths of their active involvement in his administration and expressed his commitment to transparency and accountability in the distribution of federal palliatives to the people of Plateau State.
“We are working diligently to enhance agriculture, healthcare, tourism, education, public transportation, sports, and the ease of doing business to improve our local economy,” Mutfwang said. “In some areas, we will need the support of the private sector to end poverty and hunger and to realize the Plateau of our dreams.”
Mutfwang assured the youths that their demands would be transmitted to the president by next week and urged them to be patient and supportive of the government’s efforts.
“We will continue to provide quality leadership to the people, and I thank you for conducting yourselves peacefully throughout the protests,” the governor concluded.
