Sanwo-Olu urges #EndSARS protesters to end demonstrations and embrace dialogue
By Emmanuel Awosika
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on #EndSARS protesters to stop blocking roads and embrace dialogue instead.
Sanwo-Olu made the call in a statement titled ‘Leave The Road And Let’s Dialogue, Sanwo-Olu Appeals To Protesters’, released by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile on Monday.
States across the country, including Lagos, have witnessed weeks of #EndSARS protests demanding a stop to police brutality and reform of the Nigerian Police Force.
However, the protests have also affected economic activities negatively, with major highway and roads being blocked by protesters.
The statement contained the Governor’s address at the swearing-in ceremony held for members of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution at the State House in Marina.
According to the statement, Sanwo-Olu said the demands of protesters were legitimate and genuine.
He, however, noted that while the government had acquiesced to some of the demands, it would need some time to work on others.
He urged protesters to exercise patience and end the demonstrations while the government made efforts to fulfill other demands.
His words: “We have shown unprecedented commitment to the complete overhaul of the Nigerian Police. The inauguration of this Judicial Panel of Inquiry is only the first step in a long line of reformative actions that will lead to a thorough revamp and reorientation of the Nigeria Police.
“I believe that some of the actions we have taken should, to a large extent, show our sincerity and willingness to address all your concerns.
“Let me reiterate that I am on the side of the young people out there. I understand your pain and I know your concerns are genuine and legitimate.
“While we are able to immediately acquiesce to some of your demands, some others will require time. We ask you to bear with us as we dutifully work on your demands.
“I will, therefore, like to renew my appeal to you to suspend the protests and create an atmosphere for the resolution of all pending demands.
“I encourage everyone brutalised by the disbanded SARS, including the families of those who died, to present their case before this tribunal.”
