The Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said the federal government of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is already addressing the challenges facing the country.
A nationwide protest with the theme #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria is began today, Thursday, and expected to last for 10 days.
The federal government and President Bola Tinubu have appealed to the youths to shelve the planned protest.
Speaking during a broadcast on Wednesday, Sanwo-Olu said some of the narratives trailing the protest suggest that the planned demonstration is an opportunity for a change of government.
He said residents of the state should reflect on the damages caused by the 2020 EndSARS protest before joining the nationwide demonstration.
“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.
“For weeks, we’ve faced the prospect of protests aimed at ending what some call “bad government.” While the intentions may be noble, some narratives suggesting it’s a means to change the government by non-constitutional means are troubling.
“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. Instead, it could undo the modest gains we’ve made.
“Are there challenges? Yes. Is the government addressing them? Absolutely. Significant efforts are underway across many sectors to alleviate our people’s pain and pave the way to lasting prosperity.
“This week, President Tinubu signed a new minimum wage into law. Student loans are being disbursed to ease financial burdens, and local governments now have financial autonomy to enhance governance efficiency.
“The foreign exchange crisis is being creatively tackled. The sale of crude oil to local refineries in Naira will save $7.9 billion annually and strengthen our currency. The Presidential Initiative on CNG is also attracting private investments.
“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.
“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.
“We can do more, and we will.
“Reflecting on the tragic events of the EndSARS protest in 2020, it began peacefully but was later hijacked, resulting in immense destruction and loss.
“We will NOT allow history 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 destabilization that can make us poorer. Let’s unite, embrace dialogue, and build a peaceful, prosperous Lagos.
“To ensure safe and peaceful expression, the Police have designated Gani Fawehinmi Park and Peace Park for protests. These locations will be secured to protect our 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.
“God bless Lagos State.
“God bless Nigeria.”
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