The Lagos State government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, announced several “hardship relief measures” on Friday.
These measures include the return of Sunday markets with a 25% discount on food items, free medical outreach treatments, free delivery services for expectant women in hospitals, and a 25% reduction in transport fares.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, through the Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, communicated these measures during an interview on TVC News. Omotoso conveyed that the state government had heard the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protesters “loud and clear.” When asked if these measures were a temporary response to quell the ongoing protests, Omotoso stated that these initiatives had been in place prior to the protests.
Omotoso remarked, “Millions of Lagosians benefited from the 25% discount on food items, which is why it is so popular and they are asking for its return. Apart from that, we have undertaken many initiatives in Lagos, which is why many of our young people didn’t come out to protest. For instance, just the other day, thousands of graduates from our vocational centers received equipment to start their own businesses. Such individuals are less likely to protest. This is not an attempt to pacify potential protesters; these are ongoing programs that will continue regardless of the protests.”
Reflecting on the protests that have been ongoing for two days with eight days remaining, Omotoso emphasized the importance of constant communication and non-violence. He said, “What we have learned from the protest is the necessity of continuous communication and understanding that violence benefits no one. Chaos may bring attention, but it does not resolve issues. It’s time for the protesters to go home. They have behaved orderly, but now is the time to sit down, analyze the issues, and find common ground to address their concerns.”