By Adedotun Ajayi

Representatives of various women groups in Ondo State have unanimously opposed the proposed nationwide protest.

These women, primarily artisans and traders from the state’s 18 local government areas, gathered at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, on Wednesday to express their concerns.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the difficult times Nigerians are facing and called for cooperation between the government and the people to combat hunger and poverty.

“We recognize the hard times, but synergy between the government and the people is crucial to overcoming these challenges,” he stated.

Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the women that, in addition to federal efforts to address hunger, his administration has developed plans to engage women and youths in programs aimed at eradicating poverty.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding protests that could destabilise the state.

“Our administration has urged youths and other stakeholders not to engage in protests to maintain stability in the state,” the governor said.

He outlined several measures the government has implemented to combat hunger and poverty, including improved security measures to protect farmers, the provision of farm inputs, sales of subsidized food items, and the employment of teachers.

The governor concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to ensure peace and development in Ondo State, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during these challenging times.

In her remarks, Mrs. Bola Aina, Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Women Mobilisation, commended the women for their solidarity and urged them to monitor and caution their wards against participating in protests that could lead to crises.

In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Information, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu; and Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Pastor Emmanuel Igbasan.