From Fisayo Akinduro, Osogbo

Youths have been enjoined to explore the options of dialogue and negotiation with the government rather than embarking on actions that jeopardize the peace of the State.
Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola gave the advice while speaking with the leadership of the National Association of Osun State Students (NAOSS) and the Osun Chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS.
Oyetola added that responsible dialogue and negotiation are safer practices in governance, especially in Osun where the current administration is one that listens to the yearnings and aspirations of citizens.
He restated the commitment of his administration to continue to interface with the citizens in general and the youths in particular.
“Continuous civic engagement is important especially in a State like ours where we run an all-inclusive participatory governance. That was our starting point when we came into office.
“We had a ‘Thank You Tour’, which was complemented by the Citizens’ Needs Assessment by the United Kingdom’s Department For International Development. All our interventions today are a product of those earlier engagements, and we are willing to do more.
“Governance is not about sitting at a corner and arriving at decisions that affects everyone. Those who lead must be involved with the people they lead and engage them well in order to know how to serve them.
“Also, it is important for our youths to embrace the option of responsible dialogue and negotiation with the government. Let us avoid actions that can either embarrass the government or trouble the peace of the State. Osun remains one of the most peaceful States in the country.
“While I was Chief of Staff, I interfaced with many of you. I knew a number of you back then. Now, I’m the Governor, but still open to listening to you. Step forward and let us discuss constructively and see what is workable and sustainable”, Oyetola said.
The leadership of the delegation thanked Governor Oyetola for his youth-friendly policies and procedures, especially with the inclusion of youths in the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Police brutality, extra-judicial killings and other related matters.
They also expressed their delight over the appointment of a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs and Social Mobilization, adding that it was a testament that the Oyetola-led administration is indeed inclusive.