In an address to Lagos residents, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the state will not tolerate a reoccurrence of the 2020 #EndSARS demonstration. He made this declaration while urging organizers of the current anti-hunger protest, who have persisted in highlighting the economic hardships faced by Nigerians since the start of President Bola Tinubu’s tenure.
Sanwo-Olu pointed out that a 10-day protest cannot achieve what sustained economic reforms can bring about over weeks and months. He cited the ongoing process of quantifying the losses incurred from the destruction of property during the previous protest as a reminder of the detrimental impacts.
He recalled the tragic turn of events during the 2020 EndSARS protest, noting the peaceful beginnings that eventually devolved into chaos and widespread destruction. Sanwo-Olu asserted, “We will NOT allow history to repeat itself. The aftermath of the protests included the destruction of key institutions such as the Lagos High Court, 45 police stations, 12 Local Government offices, 7 Fire Stations, and the Forensic Centre, among others.
Additional casualties included the City Hall, Nigeria Ports Authority headquarters, and various traditional rulers’ palaces. The devastation extended to malls, shops, offices, and a significant number of modern BRT buses. Such setbacks, both economically and socially, are substantial.”
While acknowledging the prevalent challenges in the country, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the Federal Government’s concerted efforts to address these issues and alleviate the citizens’ suffering. He questioned the efficacy of protests as a means to solve deep-rooted problems within a short timeframe, suggesting that sustainable reforms are the key to lasting progress.
Sanwo-Olu also underscored recent achievements such as the implementation of a new minimum wage, disbursement of student loans, and granting financial autonomy to local governments. These steps, coupled with innovative approaches to address the foreign exchange crisis, reflect a commitment to sustainable economic development.
Amid discussions on economic reforms and governmental initiatives, the governor outlined various measures undertaken by his administration to mitigate the impacts of inflation, including EKOCARES, reduced transport costs, free medical services, and enhanced educational support through bursaries and scholarships for students in Lagos.
In a plea to the protesters, Sanwo-Olu urged them to assemble at the designated protest venues, Gani Fawehinmi Park and Peace Park, approved by the authorities to ensure a safe and orderly expression of grievances. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and preventing any disruptions.