From Emmanuel Adeyemi, Lokoja
Peace and serenity prevailed in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, on Thursday, as residents declined to participate in the ongoing national protest against the Federal Government over persistent hardship.
Our correspondent observed residents going about their normal daily activities on Thursday, even as security personnel from various agencies were stationed along major roads in the state capital.
The Kogi State Government, under Governor Usman Ododo, had strategically organised a youth summit at the Government House, seemingly to divert the attention of youths from the protest.
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The summit drew youths from all 21 local government areas of the state to the Government House in Lokoja, where the governor and members of his cabinet were present.
Earlier, youth groups in the state had distanced themselves from the planned protest, pledging to attend the youth summit organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
Meanwhile, businesses in the state capital, including banks and corporate offices, remained open, and residents continued with their normal activities.
Regular activities also continued at the popular Ganaja Flyover in Lokoja, although a heavy security presence was observed.