Open Letter To All The Youths Of Cross River State

My dear youths of Cross River State,
We have prayed and believe that a more prosperous Cross River State will come.

Together, we took to the streets to support Back to South, because we believe in the people\’s first mandate, but we know that real change takes time.

I understand how you feel, because we are all in this together. Prices of things are now very expensive, and we feel that our only option is protest. But what about dialogue?

I know you feel strongly about this cause, but sometimes protesting can have unexpected consequences. It might escalate conflicts or create divides rather than foster understanding. Think about your family and the destruction of lives and properties.

Think about the EndSARS experience. What will happen if this protest is hijacked, and you are exposed to danger?

Our Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has given us every reason not to join the nationwide protest. Our roads are wearing a new look (no potholes), electricity has leveled up, salaries are paid on time, healthcare is being taken care of, and renovation of abandoned projects in the state is at top speed – even the blind knows that one of such projects is the state library.

Our Governor is working on civil service employment for us, he listens to us youths, and he has never closed his doors, so why do we want to close the doors he has opened? Why do we want to take our state backward when we are moving forward?

Youths of Cross River State have no business in this nation wide protest. One year in office is short of a time to destroy what the government is building. If you truly desire a change, you might find that engaging in dialogue, collaborating with others, or working behind the scenes can be more effective in bringing about the change you care about.

Let\’s consider all the ways to address issues and choose approaches that build bridges and create a lasting impact.

Comr. Dan Obo Jnr.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Mobilization