Politics
By Victoria Frances
PETER Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 presidential election, is sad at the deportation of Osun State indigenes resident in Lagos by the government of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In a series of tweets on his verified X handle on Tuesday, May 7, Obi said:”I am deeply saddened and shocked by the recent reports of the deportation of citizens mostly of Osun State origin by Lagos State authorities. This is not merely a concern for Osun State but for all Nigerians who uphold the principles of unity, fairness, and justice.”
According to Obi, “I find this action very distasteful because of the far-reaching effects it will have on our National cohesion and development. As a pan-Nigerian advocate, I vehemently oppose any form of discrimination, injustice, or violation of our citizens’ rights.
“Every Nigerian, irrespective of their state of origin or place of residence, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Let us always remember that we are all Nigerians, united by a common destiny. And that it is our collective duty to uphold the values of unity, fairness, and justice, and to stand against any form of discrimination or injustice. Our constitution guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to reside and find livelihood in any and every part of the federation.
“I implore all Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant as we await the outcome of the investigation. Meanwhile, the security agencies in Osun State are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of the deported youths.
“Together, let us strive for a Nigeria where every citizen is accorded dignity and respect, regardless of their background or place of origin or residence. A new and different Nigeria is indeed possible! Let us strive towards it in unity.”
Realnews reports Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has expressed shock over the deportation of citizens of his state by Lagos State in a statement on Monday, May 6, by his Spokesperson, Rasheed Olawale.
The statement quoted Governor Adeleke as saying that he had made his feelings known to his Lagos State counterpart, Governor Babajude Sanwo-Olu.
In his interaction with the Lagos State Governor on the incident, Governor Adeleke expressed shock at the development, urging Governor Sanwo-Olu to look into the matter and put an end to it if the report is true, the statement said.
It quoted Governor Adeleke as saying: “I spoke with my brother, Governor Sanwo-Olu on the matter. He too was surprised and he denied ever authorizing any such action.“
Governor Sanwo-Olu has promised immediate investigation to unravel the facts of the situation. The Lagos team will update us as quickly as possible, the statement said.
“I am subsequently directing our security agencies in Osun to mount surveillance in and around Ilesa to track the deported youths and their destinations.
“I will update our people on this development. I urge residents to be calm while the security agencies carry out surveillance, the said.
F.A
May 7, 2024
Tags: Lagos deports Osun citizens Peter Obi
