The Ekiti State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has drawn a firm line in the sand, officially declaring that the youth of the state will have no part in the planned “Free Nnamdi Kanu” protest scheduled for October 20, 2025.
In a strong statement released on Sunday, the Council’s Chairman, Amb. James Segun Bankole, moved to quell rising tensions and dispel any rumors of their involvement, positioning Ekiti youths as champions of dialogue and lawful engagement.
Bankole was unequivocal, stating that the state’s youth are “peace-loving, law-abiding, and enlightened” citizens who believe in constructive engagement over street confrontation. He issued a direct warning to any group attempting to co-opt the name of Ekiti youths for the demonstration, urging them to “desist immediately.”
“Ekiti has always been a land of peace, intellect, and progressive ideals,” Bankole affirmed, reinforcing the state’s unique identity.
In a strong appeal to collective memory, the Chairman invoked the ghost of the 2020 EndSARS protests, reminding young people of the “unfortunate experiences and damages… many of which remain unresolved.”
“No responsible youth would wish for such tragedy to repeat itself,” Bankole asserted, calling for maturity, civility, and leadership from their peers. The message was clear: the true strength of Ekiti lies in peace, not in violence or confrontation.
Looking ahead, the NYCN Chairman called on all security agencies in the state to remain on high alert to safeguard the lives and property of all citizens before, during, and after the proposed protest date.
He urged young people across Ekiti to channel their energies into productive ventures and community development, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to supporting government initiatives that foster unity and empower the next generation.
