Sanwo-Olu sues for calm, appeals to Lagosians causing violence to desist.

Yemisi Dada

Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu has appealed to Lagosians to desist from destructing public infrastructure and causing mayhem across the state in agitation over the current twin challenges in the country.

Governor Sanwo-olu made the appeal in a statewide broadcast at the Lagos House, Marina on Saturday, February 18, 2023.

The Governor who said he felt the pains of residents in the face of the cash scarcity and the situation surrounding old naira notes, urged residents to be patient and trust the government to do the right thing soonest.

Governor Sanwo-olu warned POS operators and petrol stations attendants who cashed in on the ugly situation to charge exorbitant fees to desist from such and be humane in their dealings with their fellow citizens

“My fellow Lagosians, this is a heartfelt call to you, as your Governor, to please remain calm at this time, and avoid all forms of violence, arson and rioting. Even in the face of the difficulties and frustrations being faced by all, violence and destruction should not and will never be the answer. We have noticed with dismay the rampant incidents surrounding some of the players in the financial services value chain (POS Agents/Operators); as well as petrol station attendants who have taken the current challenges to mean an opportunity to extort hard working and law abiding Lagosians with extortionate service charges on funds withdrawal and sale of PMS. Let me appeal to those involved in such behaviour to desist from such sharp practices. It is especially in difficult times like these that we all need to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper and do everything we can to contribute to lessening the hardships faced by our fellow Lagosians. This is not the period to sacrifice empathy, compassion, and humanity on the altar of profit making”

“To my good people of Lagos, please resist the opportunists who seek to take advantage of the anger and frustration that you all are feeling to hijack the situation and foment trouble. We know that there are unscrupulous persons who want to sow seeds of violence and discord by their very utterances and actions, all with the view of robbing you of the chance to cast your votes in the February 25 Presidential and National Assembly elections. Do not allow them to use you to achieve their evil intentions. There is no justification whatsoever for attacking public or private property. The law enforcement agents have received clear instructions to take full control and ensure zero tolerance for any and all acts of arson, violence and destruction.” He said.

The Governor emphasized that the state government food palliatives and discount on state owned public transportation subsist to cushion the effects of the challenges, while talks with the private sector is ongoing

Governor Sanwo-olu commended the different security formations in Lagos and urged them not to rest on their oars to ensure the maintenance of peace in the state.

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