Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced new channels of engagement following the peaceful discontinuation of protests against economic hardship in the state.
The announcement was made in a statement by Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy.
The statement reads: “The Lagos State Government expresses appreciation to the protesters in Lagos for their peaceful conduct and their announcement of an end to their action following the broadcast by the president.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the leaders of the protest, stating: “Your stoppage of the protest today is a crystal clear affirmation of the fact that you know your collective voice has been heard by the government. What you have done is not only noble, but the civilised thing to do.”
To demonstrate the government’s commitment to ongoing dialogue with the youth, the governor has instructed that, despite the end of the protests, the initiated discussions and engagements will continue. The Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Ministry of Information and Strategy, and Office of Civic Engagement have been directed to open wider channels of engagement with various stakeholders, including the protest leaders.
The following dedicated Citizens Access lines have been provided for reaching out to the respective ministries:
Office of Civic Engagement: +234 802 522 4347
Ministry of Information & Strategy: +234 811 965 5788
Ministry of Youth & Social Development: +234 707 717 8295
Governor Sanwo-Olu also urged citizens to remain vigilant against those who may attempt to spread misinformation and incite division through fake news. He emphasised that Lagosians must reject warmongering, scaremongering, and rumor-mongering, stating, “That is not our way; that is not who we are. That is not our style.”
The governor commended Lagosians for choosing peace over anarchy and praised the professional conduct of all security agencies, including the Police Command, Department of State Services, the military, Civil Defence, and Neighbourhood Watch.
He also acknowledged the significant contributions of traditional rulers, civil society organisations, community leaders, religious leaders, and student leaders in maintaining peace in Lagos.
