Osun Youth Postpones Protest Over LG Election Crisis

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), Osun State Chapter, has announced the postponement of its planned peaceful protest against the exploitative activities of housing agents in the state, citing the ongoing political turmoil surrounding the local government elections.

In a statement signed by the Speaker of YAN Osun, Rt. Hon. Fatomi Dare Hammed, the youth body disclosed that the decision was reached in response to the heightened tension across the state. According to the statement, the directive by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Osun State Council, to shut down local government secretariats indefinitely, coupled with the government’s increased security measures, necessitated the postponement.

“As a responsible youth organisation, we prioritise the safety of our members and the entire Osun youth. We cannot afford to put lives at risk or allow external forces to hijack our movement for their selfish agenda. Our struggle for fair housing practices remains unchanged, and we will not relent in holding those responsible to account,” the statement read.

The group clarified that the postponement was neither a retreat nor a compromise but a strategic move to prevent escalation of the already tense political atmosphere. It assured that a new date for the protest would be communicated in due course while urging Osun youths to remain vigilant and law-abiding.

The planned demonstration was aimed at addressing the rising cases of alleged extortion, unfair rent hikes, and fraudulent dealings by housing agents across the state. However, with the looming crisis stemming from the controversy surrounding the February 22 local government election, YAN Osun maintained that it would not contribute to the prevailing unrest.

Meanwhile, political tensions have continued to escalate as stakeholders remain at odds over the validity of the Appeal Court ruling on the sacked local government chairmen and councillors. The opposition and ruling party have continued to trade accusations, further intensifying uncertainty in the state.

The youth assembly reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of Osun residents, promising to continue engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure the implementation of fair housing policies while maintaining its stance on social justice.