THE Ondo State Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, has urged religious leaders in the country to intensify efforts in guiding and mentoring the youths in order to avoid acts that could cause civil unrest in the country.

Akeredolu made the call in Akure at the commendation and appreciation service in honour of the state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. John Oladapo, on the completion of his 10 years tenure of office as the President of the Ondo State Baptist Conference.

The governor was represented by the state Head of Service, Mr Dare Aragbaiye, at the programme held on Saturday in Akure, the state capital.

He noted that there were “lots of gains in dialogue on any issue more than losses that could come in engaging in violence.”

Akeredolu stressed the need for the religious leaders in the state and the country at large to contribute their quota towards preventing the act of brigandage that characterised the last #EndSARS protests which led to loss of lives and properties.

In a remark, Reverend Oladapo expressed appreciation to those that contributed to the successes recorded during his tenure in the Baptist.