Sanwo-Olu says the Lagos government recognises and respects the citizens’ right to protest.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has acknowledged that every Nigerian citizen has the constitutional right to protest and express themselves.
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Sanwo-Olu made the admission in a statement posted on social media Friday night after he met with civil society organisations in response to planned nationwide protests.
The governor, however, said expressions such as protests must be conducted within the bounds of the law.
Sanwo-Olu, who addressed peaceful #EndSARS protesters in 2020 before thugs allegedly linked to the state government hijacked the movement, said any protests must remain peaceful and orderly.
“In continuation of my engagements with various groups and stakeholders ahead of the planned nationwide protests, I met with Civil Society and Self-Determination Groups today to discuss the crucial need for peace in Lagos State,” he wrote.
“I emphasized that the State Government fully recognizes and respects the citizens’ right to express themselves.
“However, such expressions must be conducted within the bounds of the law. It is essential that we maintain order and peace, especially considering the potential for unrest.
“I urged the civil society organizations to play their part in ensuring that any protests remain peaceful and orderly. The memory of the wanton destruction of public and private property during previous protests is still fresh in our minds, and I firmly believe that we all must avoid a repeat of such incidents.
“I look forward to our collective effort in fostering an environment where citizens can express their views without resorting to violence or chaos.
“Together, I believe we can work towards a peaceful and prosperous Lagos State.”
The governor’s meeting with civil society organisations came a day after the Lagos State House of Assembly asked him to take “major steps” to protest ensure that there are no violent protests in the state.
In 2020, protesters at House of Assembly gate in Ikeja, the state capital, were attacked by thugs who came in a BRT bus controlled by Lagos State Government’s agents with machetes and other weapons.
A number of protesters reportedly sustained injuries in the attack.
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However, the Lagos State Bus Services Ltd. (LBSL) denied that a BRT bus was used to convey hoodlums, saying the armed men approached the bus after they were dropped by a yellow bus.
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