Kwara activist to launch book on August protests, advocates for better governance

A human rights activist from Kwara State, Mashood Lanrey Osho, is set to launch a book addressing the August protests, with a focus on the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.

The book launch is scheduled for December 29, 2024, and promises to be a significant event, featuring discussions by distinguished speakers on pressing issues surrounding protests, governance, and civil rights.

According to Mr Osho, the event will include the following speakers:

• IGP Egbetokun: Discussing why security forces often fear protests and strategies for managing them peacefully.
• Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu: Sharing insights on how citizens can engage with the government civilly and the government’s efforts to deliver the dividends of democracy.
• Comrade Issa Aremu, mni: Exploring the role of protests in workers’ negotiations, why they are often a last resort, and why governments view them with apprehension.
• Professor Ali Ahmed: Examining the legal framework for protests, including the need for security permissions, and the government’s fears regarding citizens’ constitutional rights.
• Barrister Iyiola Akogun: Reflecting on Kwara State’s political evolution, combining his expertise as a political scientist, lawyer, and farmer.

Mr Osho described the event as an opportunity to share practical solutions for promoting transparency and accountability in governance at all levels.

The event will also welcome prominent figures as special guests and chief launchers, including:

• Special Guest of Honour: Alhaji Hakeem Oladimeji Lawal
• Guests of Honour: Engineer Sunday Babalola, Professor Wale Suleiman, Barrister Abdulkareem Alabi, and Alhaji Muftau Akanbi Oke.
• Chief Launchers: Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali SAN, Alhaji Olayinka Onikigipa, Hon. Mashood Mustapha, Barrister Abubakar Gambar, Alhaji Jani Ibrahim, Ambassador Ibrahim Tajudeen Olesin, Mallam Hussain Babareke, Hon. Yinka Aluko, and Engineer Nurudeen Adeyemi.

Osho invites all Nigerians to attend this thought-provoking event, which aims to foster a national conversation on governance and accountability. He urged citizens to mark their calendars for December 29 and join the dialogue that will help shape the country’s future.

“This book launch is not just about the protests; it’s about understanding the challenges and finding lasting solutions for a more transparent and accountable society,” Osho said.