Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu on Sunday, paid a solidarity visit to his Osun counterpart, Adegboyega Oyetola, over the attack on his convoy by armed thugs at the venue of the #EndSARS Protest in Osogbo on Saturday.
Akeredolu, who described the attack as shocking, appealed to the protesting youths to give the government time to attend to their demands and interests.
Governor Akeredolu said:”Yesterday’s incident was most disturbing. It was unfortunate. It’s a development that all of us must condemn. it’s mostly an act of terrorism. When I saw it, I felt very bad. I felt I should come today to solidarize with you. We thank God for sparing your life. Valuables must have been lost, but we thank God for your life.
He commended the security aides of Gov. Oyetola for not fighting back, saying that the situation would have resulted in an unpleasant outcome that will make nonsense of the governor’s solidarity with the people.
READ ALSO : Oyetola Reacts To Attempt On His Life In State Broadcast
Akeredolu, however, called on the youths to be wary of criminal elements that have infiltrated their ranks, adding that the criminal elements do not understand what the youths are fighting for.
“The agitation of the #Endsars protesters is right , and we are not saying it’s unfounded, if I have my way I would be with them every other day. What they are protesting is what Fela Anikulapo called Sorrow, Tears and Blood. We are not condemning #EndSars demonstration. But for now, why don’t we suspend it and allow government to take actions.
“I appeal to the youths on the street to give government time. You can give us ultimatum. I want to use this medium to appeal to them. Their rank and file is being infiltrated by thugs and hoodlums. When people hijack #EndSars protest, it could be catastrophic. What happened in Osun can not be protest. It should be condemned. I’m happy my brother is alive and well.”
The governor, who came in the company of his Deputy-governor elect, Mr. Lucky Ayedatiwa, also thanked Oyetola for standing behind them during the election.
READ ALSO : Attack On Gov. Oyetola,An Assassination Attempt- Egbemode
In his response, Oyetola said the protest by the youths was legitimate but warned them to be wary of political thugs that seem to be steadily hijacking the movement in the State.
“The youths should be careful because the core protesters’ ranks have been infiltrated by thieves, looters and vandals, who went as far as attacking private businesses in Osun Mall.
“Please, reconsider the way the economy is being hampered and the fear that has been created in other citizens of the State, and let’s stay focused on our demands.
“Don’t let hoodlums defeat the purpose of this movement,” Oyetola said.
