Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on residents and youth in the state to reconsider participating in the planned nationwide protest scheduled for today, News About Nigeria reports.
In an appeal shared via Twitter, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the protest potentially carries risk and consequences, urging citizens to seek alternative ways to address their concerns.
“Today, I stand before you deeply committed to the well-being and prosperity of our great state. Lagos has always been a beacon of hope and resilience, reflecting the brilliance and energy of our diverse cultures,” Sanwo-Olu began.
He acknowledged the frustrations driving the call for protests, which aim to address perceived governmental inadequacies.
However, he expressed concern over some narratives suggesting that the protest could serve as a means to change the government through non-constitutional methods.
“Is a protest the catalyst for progress we need now? Will it ensure our challenges vanish in ten days? Will it lower food prices or inspire economic growth? I strongly believe it won’t,” the governor stated.
He warned that the protest could potentially undo the modest gains made in various sectors, including recent government efforts to alleviate economic hardships.
Sanwo-Olu pointed out several initiatives under Bola Tinubu’s administration aimed at improving the country’s economic situation.
These include a new minimum wage law, the disbursement of student loans, financial autonomy for local governments, and measures to address the foreign exchange crisis.
He noted that these reforms require time to take effect and called for patience from the public.
Reflecting on the tragic events of the 2020 EndSARS protests, Sanwo-Olu recalled how peaceful demonstrations were hijacked, leading to destruction and loss.
He listed the damages caused, including the destruction of government buildings, police stations, and public transportation infrastructure, and emphasised the economic and social setbacks caused by such incidents.
To provide a controlled and safe environment for those who wish to express their views, the governor announced that the police have designated Gani Fawehinmi Park and Peace Park as secure locations for protests.
He urged citizens to use these areas for peaceful demonstrations and to avoid actions that could lead to chaos and destabilisation.
“Our goal is a peaceful and prosperous Lagos. We must avoid economic destabilisation, that can make us poorer. Let’s unite, embrace dialogue, and build a peaceful, prosperous Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu concluded, calling on Lagosians to prioritise unity, peace, and stability for the collective future of the state.
