Governors and traditional rulers in the South-West region of Nigeria want a review of the decision to close land borders in the region.
They also want the federal government to consider reports of constitutional conferences, including the 2014 National Conference.
Their requests were contained in a communique issued on Sunday in Lagos after a post #EndSARS Protest meeting with presidential delegation, led by the Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Gambari.
Making their submissions in the communique signed by the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi as well as the governor of Ondo State and chairman South-West governors’ forum, Rotimi Akeredolu, the leaders complained that the prolonged closure of the border had caused economic difficulties for the people of the region.
“The border closure should be re-examined to alleviate problems of the people in the border communities and prices of some essential commodities.
“There is a need to review the closure and permit resumption of economic and trading activities,” the communique read in part.
The communique also called for the implementation of some of the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference, especially with reference to security, economy and equal treatment for citizens all over the country.
It went on to stress the need for an adjustment of nation’s security architecture with a view to addressing threats and realities of insecurity in the country.
“There is a need to undertake preventive actions aimed at prevention of repeat of what happened in the country following the #EndSARS demonstrators. Security needs to be strengthened in all states.
“We wish to encourage the Nigeria Police by responding to their needs and appeal to them to do more to protect lives and properties and enhance security all over the country.
“We call for specific measures and proposals to repair damage done to the physical infrastructure and economic assets of the South-West,” the communique said.
Deliberating on the welfare of youths in the region, the meeting highlighted the need for a prioritised and comprehensive programme that will address youth employment and empowerment.
They also harped on the need for the Federal government to promote entrepreneurship, resolve the impasse between it and ASUU, combat fake news and adopt effective technological machinery for the advancement of the Nigerian Security.
