Protest: Sanwo-Olu calls for normalcy 

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Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the peaceful conduct of Lagosians during Thursday’s protest in various parts of the state. 

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, Mr Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the demonstration exemplified how peaceful protests should be conducted in the state.

He acknowledged the slowdown of business activities in some areas, likely due to concerns that hooligans and disruptors might exploit the situation to threaten the state’s peace and harmony.

The statement read: “To a large extent, Lagosians have chosen to embrace peace and shun the path of destruction while expressing their views and constitutional right to protest. The message of the protest – hunger in the land – has also been well noted. It is, however, important to reiterate the fact that the Federal Government is taking steps to reverse the situation. 

“Besides opening the National Grains Reserve, the Federal Government has suspended import duties on food items – a measure that will, no doubt, ensure that the current food shortage is addressed and high prices are rolled back. We will work with all food distributors to ensure that our citizens enjoy the resultant price reductions. 

“On our part, as Mr. Governor has promised, the popular Sunday Markets will return with its 25% discount on all major food items. The Medical Outreach, which offered thousands of our people treatment free of any charge whatsoever, will also return. We are finalising the logistics for its implementation. 

“We will continue to ensure that all expectant women enjoy free delivery in our hospitals. The 25% slash in fares on all our transport facilities will continue. So will all the other measures we have put in place to relieve Lagosians of the burden of these times. Considering all the Federal and State Governments have done, all lovers of peace will agree that it is time the protesters called off their action. Their voice has been heard – loud and clear.

“It is also important to put on record the professional conduct of all our security agencies – the Lagos State Police Command, the Department of State Services, the Military, the Civil Defence, Neighbourhood Watch, Community leaders, Religious Leaders, Resident Associations and others – who ensured that the peace we cherish was not compromised.

“We will continue to engage all stakeholders to ensure that our State remains peaceful and a beacon of hope for all. Lagosians are enjoined to go about their businesses without any fear. Security agents will continue to ensure that our State is safe and that businesses can operate without any harassment.”