In anticipation of the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August, the Lagos State Government has affirmed the right of citizens to peacefully demonstrate, emphasizing that such actions are within their constitutional rights.
This was articulated by Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the State Government, during a meeting with the Secretaries to the Local Governments (SLGs) on Tuesday.
Salu-Hundeyin underscored the importance of maintaining the peaceful nature of the protests, warning against any potential for violence or destruction.
“It is a legitimate right for citizens to protest, as there is nothing wrong in it,” she stated. “However, people should be wary that it does not turn violent and destructive.”
Highlighting the achievements of the state, she expressed that there is no compelling reason for protests in Lagos, given the government’s efforts to improve the lives of its residents.
“Lagos State has done so much for its citizens that nobody in the state should stand up and say they are going to break anything,” she remarked. “Sincerely, and I mean it; it is not because I am the Secretary of the State Government; I speak from my heart and God knows; there is no reason for anybody to cause any protests or riots or violence in Lagos State.”
The Secretary’s statements reflect the government’s commitment to acknowledging the rights of its citizens while advocating for a non-violent and constructive approach to expressing grievances. As the planned protests draw nearer, the Lagos State Government hopes to see a display of civic responsibility and peaceful demonstration from its citizens.
