from OKORO CHINEDU in Lagos, Nigeria
Nigeria Bureau
LAGOS, (CAJ News) – YOUTH in world’s largest Black nation, Nigeria, have protested against Israel’s onslaught of Gaza, which has left thousands dead in recent weeks.
The youth, protesting in Lagos under the aegis of the Young Leaders’ Forum (YLF), decried especially the killing of children during the bombardments Israel has carried out in retaliation to an attack by the Hamas terror group on October 7.
“As the future leaders of this world, it is our responsibility to speak up, take action, and pave the way for a better tomorrow,” Sheriff Kukoyi, YLF regional coordinator, said.
“These children, who should be filled with dreams and aspirations, are instead experiencing the horrors of violence, displacement, and loss. We cannot turn a blind eye to their suffering, nor should we accept that this is the world we want to inherit.”
The Nigerian youth grouping pledged solidarity with Palestinian children, women and the aged, who are enduring the most hardships as the conflict escalates.
“The images we see and the stories we hear are heart-wrenching. Innocent lives are being shattered, families torn apart, and dreams of a peaceful future crushed under the weight of this relentless war.”
YLF believes it is its moral obligation to stand up against injustices.
It called on the international community to call for the immediate end to the war and a return to the negotiating table.
“It is only through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy that a just and lasting solution can be reached,” Kukoyi said.
“We must demand an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued the land of Palestine for far too long since 1948.”
YLF is demanding the fundamental right of the Palestinians, their rights to land, basic amenities, life, dignity and security.
“We believe in the power of peace, the strength of unity, and the resilience of the human spirit,” Kukoyi said.
– CAJ News