With the nationwide protest expected to end today, youths in Plateau State on Saturday, August 10, reeled out their demands to the state governor, Caleb Mutfwang and the government at the Federal level.
The youths represented by their leader, Sam Ode, stated that their demand required the input of both the Federal and State governments.
Ode said, ”For the state government, we demand an immediate cut in the cost of governance. We also demand an explanation on how the various palliatives and funding from the federal government are being expended.”
He further called on the state government to implement the minimum wage recently signed into law by the president and reduce the school fees of tertiary institutions.
He added, ”For the federal government, we call on the president to end corruption, reverse the pump price of fuel to N300, and also reverse the hike in electricity tariff.”
In addition, Ode urged the government at the federal level to ensure that the cost of governance is reduced to a bare minimum while all national borders are re-opened.
The youths also called for a reform of the nation’s judicial system.
”I want our leaders to know that these demands are the will of the people toward a pathway for sustainable development. We are not rebelling against the government,” Ode said.
In his response, the Plateau State governor, Caleb Muftwang appreciated the protesters for remaining peaceful.
He also assured that their demands will be duly transmitted to the president while ensuring his administration will enable youth participation.
The governor also said that his administration would be open to legitimate criticism.
He said, ‘We are doing a lot to boost agriculture, healthcare services, tourism, education, public transportation, sports and ease of doing business to improve the local economy.
”In some areas, we will need the support of the private sector to end poverty and hunger and actualise the Plateau of our dreams.
“I will transmit your demands to the president by next week, but all I ask of you is to be patient and support us to succeed.
”We will continue to provide quality leadership to the people, and I thank you for conducting yourselves peacefully throughout the protests,” the governor said.
