President Muhammadu Buhari, has said his administration is working on issues raised by #EndSARS protesters, but will not tolerate demands or behaviors which threatens the peace and unity of the country.
Buhari made the statement on Thursday as he welcomed a delegation of the National Council of Traditional Rulers, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, at the State House in Abuja.
He said, “I want to once again thank you for the role you all have played to calm down our youths with wisdom and authority.
“By instilling hope and keeping the peace, you have rendered the country great service.
“We cannot allow anybody or group to threaten the peace or sabotage these efforts.
“We have heard the loud cries of our youth and children, and we are attending to their concerns.
“Strong, transparent efforts are underway to address those rogue elements of the Nigerian Police Force.
“Simultaneously, the Nigerian Police Force will also undergo the much-needed reform that covers welfare, working conditions and code of conduct that will usher in a more professional workforce.”
The President noted the challenges that come with “our growing youth population”.
He said: “There is no hiding place regarding how we should address insecurity concerns, youth unemployment, job creation, boosting industrialisation and preparing for a transition into a digital economy.”
He stressed that the government required the “support and voice” of the traditional institution “to help amplify the message”.
“Your proximity to the people places you in a unique position to communicate and ensure that our response is targeted and impactful in view of your role as guardians of our traditional values and culture,” President Buhari said.
He urged the monarchs not to compromise their neutrality “because this is what significantly confers on you, your moral authority and legitimacy.”
According to President Buhari, his Chief of Staff, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, would lead senior government officials to various parts of the country to “directly engage with you as part of this process.”