Hardship Protest: “We Are Open To Dialogue”, Sanwo-Olu Declares

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, has advised people organising nationwide protests to be cautious in how they air their complaints.

The governor also emphasised that the state government is open to dialogue and peaceful resolution of issues, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, on Friday.

Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the constitutional rights of citizens to voice their concerns about the socio-economic situation in the country but cautioned against actions and utterances that could endanger public safety and peace.

He noted that some individuals issuing threats might have ulterior motives aimed at disrupting law and order.

Speaking during a courtesy visit from members of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets and Special Duties, led by the Chairman, Ademorin Kuye, Sanwo-Olu reiterated the importance of constructive dialogue.

He lauded President Bola Tinubu-led administration for its commitment to addressing citizens’ grievances through dialogue, emphasising the need for continuous engagement for the sake of national stability and the strengthening of democratic governance.

He said, “We are at a point in the country where there have been agitations and plans for nationwide protests. It is crucial to recognize the constitutional rights of citizens to express sincere concerns. As leaders, we must appreciate these concerns but also ensure that protests do not become a platform for advancing political agendas. Divisive rhetoric and actions should be avoided.

“The goal of the current administration, which has been in power for less than 15 months, is to turn around the economy of the nation. In order to resolve residents’ complaints and show that it is willing to listen, the government is actively interacting with the public. All complaints must be brought to the table in order to be resolved. This willingness to have discussions is evidence of the government’s genuineness in resolving problems as they come up”.