Thread by @DrJoeAbah

I would like to explain my comments below, as it seems to have been misconstrued by some. I am not against the Youth identifying people that can engage with the government. Indeed, there is a danger that the movement will eventually fizzle out unless they do. Thread...

https://twitter.com/DrJoeAbah/status/1316153996676075520

In an earlier thread, I had suggested that the Youth identify the best people to engage on their behalf with government at the highest levels. Please see the quoted tweet and thread. The challenge is the HOW. Apply your minds to the how. You are smart enough to think it through.

https://twitter.com/drjoeabah/status/1315747942951772163

Therefore, my brother @OgbeniDipo did nothing wrong in proposing his own list and inviting a debate around it. My reference to “Ariwo ko ni music” was meant to convey that a good activist is not necessarily a good implementer. You need the activist but also the implementer.

My respected sister @AishaYesufu has said her strength is on the streets and not on the negotiating table. Her self-awareness is refreshing & commendable. However, I would plead with her to reconsider IF the Youth want her to participate in discussions. Her insights are needed.

Additionally, we need people with the temperament and patience to give and take and see things through. My brother @segalink has been on this #EndSARS case for 3 years and has demonstrated an ability to engage with the police and drive through change. Let’s show him some respect.

Many other people, like @fkabudu have also shown an ability to get results. The current protests are bigger than any of the people I mentioned. Bringing it home requires a range of skills, including Advocacy, Negotiation, Law,, Problem Solving, Knowledge of Government & Politics.

Emotional Intelligence, Knowledge of Policing, Knowledge of Monitoring and Evaluation, Knowledge of Strategic Communications, etc. No one person has it all. You also need public figures (influencers, young and old!) that millions of young people listen to and relate with.

Some of us older ones can advise, guide & support from the background (and receive abuse too 😊), but the movement was started by the Youth and must continue to be led by the Youth. The worst disservice the Youth can do to those that have died is to engage in ego-fueled rancour.

My suggestion: Research the skills required to engage with government; identify who among the youth have shown that they have the right set of skills (whether you like them or absolutely hate them); and identify the “older” people that can guide and mentor them in the background.

I will rule myself out from any overt participation, as I am already overstretched. I am on:
1. Presidential Committee on Digital ID
2. Committee to develop a National Medium-Term Development Plan & Agenda 2050.
3. Alaigbo Development Fund with South East Governors and Ohanaeze.

4. Committee developing a new Performance Management System for the Nigerian Public Service.
5. Various boards of accountability NGOs
6. Advising several state governments.

Even my employers suppose don tire, especially as these various things are done pro bono. My Madam nko? 😢

I will always be available to support, advise and lend my experience. Reason is that although I am unlikely ever to be harassed by SARS, I have kids, nephews/nieces/cousins. Nigerian Youth have one shot at this. It will be a shame to blow it. Try and kam dahn & be strategic! End!