Victor EzejaLagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said organising nationwide protests won’t solve Nigeria’s economic problems overnight, but could worsen the situation.
The governor noted that the right to protest is a legitimate right of every citizen, as far as it is peaceful.
In a statement addressing Lagos residents, Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that while the intention behind the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protests scheduled to take place from 1 to 10 August is a noble one, the “narratives suggesting it’s a means to change the government by non-constitutional means are troubling.”
He said that protest is not a “catalyst for progress”, adding that it will neither lower food prices nor spur economic growth in the country.
He acknowledged that there are challenges in the country but they are being tackled by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to bring relief to the people.
The Lagos governor listed some of the recent efforts of the Tinubu’s administration to ease the economic hardships of Nigerians such as signing a new minimum wage into law, disbursement of Student loans to ease the financial burden of students in tertiary institutions, and the granting of financial autonomy to local governments in the country by the Supreme Court to enhance governance efficiency, especially at the grassroots.
On the lingering foreign exchange crisis, the governor said this is being tackled, adding that the sale of crude oil to local refineries in Naira will save $7.9 billion annually and strengthen the currency. He also noted that The Presidential Initiative on CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) is also attracting private investments, as alternative to cheaper fuel.
Sanwo-Olu therefore appealed to the people to exercise patient, saying that the economic reforms of the Federal Government will bear fruit, adding that 10 days of protests can’t achieve economic prosperity but would instead, destroy gains already made through reforms.
He said: “We need patience for the benefits of these economic reforms to blossom. Protests can’t achieve in days what economic reforms can in weeks and months. Our nation, under President Tinubu’s courageous leadership, is on the right path.”
Speaking on his efforts so far to cushion the effects of economic hardship in Lagos, the governor said: “In Lagos, we launched EKOCARES to cushion the effects of economic reforms. From discount markets to reduced transport costs, and free medical care, we are committed to easing the burdens on our people.
“We’ve increased bursaries and scholarships for Lagos students, ensured free education for new elementary students, and our workers earn above the national minimum wage.” He said his government is ready to do more.
Reflecting on the tragic events of the EndSARS protest in 2020, Sanwo-Olu said it began peacefully but was later hijacked, resulting in loss of lives and immense destruction of properties.
The governor said such will not be allowed to repeat itself. “During the protests, we saw the destruction of valuable properties and institutions: Lagos High Court, 45 police stations, 12 Local Government offices, 7 Fire Stations, and the Forensic Centre, among others.
“The City Hall, Nigeria Ports Authority headquarters, and traditional rulers’ palaces were also destroyed.
“Malls, shops, offices, and hundreds of brand-new BRT buses were lost. Such devastation only sets us back economically and socially.
“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.”
The governor said that to ensure a safe and peaceful protest, the Police have designated Gani Fawehinmi Park and Peace Park for the every and urged those participating to converge on those location, assuring that they will be secured to protect the citizens and prevent chaos.
“Let’s work together to build a Lagos that is safe, secure, and prosperous for all. Our strength lies in our unity, and our future depends on maintaining peace and stability,” Sanwo-Olu added.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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