Governor Sanwo-Olu Emphasizes Peaceful Protest and Progress, Avoiding #EndSARS Repeat
Ahead of the #EndBadGovernance protest scheduled to start on August 1, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has declared that the state will not allow a repeat of the 2020 #EndSARS protest experience. Addressing Lagosians on Wednesday, Governor Sanwo-Olu reflected on the peaceful beginnings of the 2020 protest, which was later hijacked, leading to significant destruction and looting.
He appealed to the organizers of the protest to exercise patience and allow President Bola Tinubu’s economic recovery policies to take effect. The governor emphasized that a 10-day protest cannot achieve the progress that thoughtful economic reforms can bring in weeks and months.
“We will not allow history to repeat itself,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated, recalling the destruction of valuable properties and institutions during the previous protests, including the Lagos High Court, 45 police stations, and numerous other facilities. He noted that such devastation sets the state back both economically and socially.
Acknowledging the current challenges in the country, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the federal government’s ongoing efforts to address these issues and alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. He cited the newly signed minimum wage, student loans, and local government autonomy as some of the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
“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 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,” he added.
Governor Sanwo-Olu underscored the importance of patience for the benefits of these economic reforms to blossom and cautioned against protests that could undo the modest gains made. He also listed his administration’s efforts to cushion the effects of inflation, including EKOCARES, reduction in transport costs, free medical care, and increased bursaries and scholarships for Lagos students.
To ensure safe and peaceful expression, the governor urged protesters to converge at the police-approved venues, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, and Peace Park, Ketu, which will be secured to protect citizens and prevent chaos.
