Many Nigerians have praised the decision of several youth and student groups to distance themselves from a planned protest organized by Babatunde Afeez Akinteye, also known as Babtee, a factional Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
Akinteye allegedly wrote to around 13 youth and student organizations, requesting their support for a protest against a former Chief of Defence Intelligence. Reports indicate that at least five groups have declined Akinteye’s request, even with monetary incentives.
According to a close associate of Akinteye (name withheld), a top government official is sponsoring the protest to tarnish the former General’s image, with $3,500 reportedly given to Babtee on November 1, 2024, followed by another $8,500 on November 8. The protest is anticipated before the dates specified in Babtee’s letters.
The FCT Youth Council, led by Comrade Barnabas Yakubu, publicly disassociated itself from the protest in a press release in Garki, Abuja. Barnabas not only condemned the protest but issued a warning to Akinteye, emphasizing that FCT youths would not tolerate any such protest in Abuja.
In support, the Youth Federation of Nigeria (YFN) and the Nigerian Students Parliament also distanced themselves. Below is the YFN’s official response:
Letter from Youth Federation of Nigeria to Babatunde Afeez Akinteye
November 8, 2024
The President of Senate
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)
c/o Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (Babtee)
RE: Call for Protest Against Maj. Gen. SA Adebayo (Rtd.)
Dear Babtee,
I acknowledge your letter requesting the Youth Federation of Nigeria to mobilize members from Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the FCT for a protest against the former Chief of Defence Intelligence.
We decline to participate, as the motives are unclear and questionable. I advise against financially motivated protests aimed at political gains and character assassination.
Thank you.
Comr. Mubarak Aliyu Rimi
President, YFN
