By Femi Atolagbe

Youths have been charged to raise their advocacy beyond protest on the street which most of the time leads to destruction of lives and property.

They were also enjoined to make their advocacy scientific by making use of available social media .

The Speaker, Ondo State Youth Parliament, Smith Ikumapayi gave this charge while inaugurating the National Association of Nigeria Comrades (NANC) executive committee members for South West Chapter.

Speaking on the theme: Youth Advocacy and Inclusion in Governance: A tool for capacity building and Sustainable nation/future, Ikumapayi said:  “nobody can rule through protest, protest is good but it has its limitation, it can be hijacked by hooligans pretending  to part of the protest.

“Ondo State is peaceful, so  I will advise our youths to sustain the current peace in the state.  We can make our agitation known through town  hall meetings, where we will have a resolution in black and white and present to the appropriate quarter,”he said.

Founder and pioneer President of the association, Comrade Samsudeen Ogunolu congratulated the newly inaugurated executive members, adding that they should know that there are big task ahead of them.

He charged them to always remain as a fighter and defender of the oppressed,  stand for justice and speak when it’s necessary .

According to him, “our generation can not be left  behind in the scheme of things.  We have to take the mantle now, because youth inclusion in politics is needed, we can’t take power unless we are involved.”

“I thank the state government for the opportunity giving to us to hold this event and with their full support”.

The National President of the association, Comrade Ogbonaya Emmanuel charged the executive to role up their sleeves and start working by embarking on sensitisation as 2023 election is fast approaching.

He commended  President Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law the electoral law, saying the law will address a lot of political excesses and give Nigerians a leader that would be held responsible.

The newly inaugurated South West Coordinator, Comrade Adedoyin Olakunle Stephen promised to embark on aggressive sensitisation, adding that the body will continue to promote activism,proffer solution to issues.

“We will ensure that we hold our leaders accountable and continue our advocacy for youth inclusiveness in governance”

Other executive committee inaugurated include; Comrade Akinyoade Olaoluwa Michael, deputy Coordinator, Comrade Olajide Oluwanifemi Christianah ,Director of Youth and students, Comrade Ogundare Motunrayo, financial secretary.