The former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has condemned the reported action of the Lagos State government led by Sanwo-Olu against citizens of Osun State residing in Lagos.
The Lagos State government a news report yet to be countered by the Sanwo-Olu administration, packed most Osun State citizens residing in Lagos in luxury buses back to their state. Olawale Rasheed, a media aide to Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, May 4, confirmed that luxury buses dropped hundreds of Osun residents back to their state. Rasheed, however, added that probe was going on the action.
The former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, said the action of Lagos State government contradicts the constitutionally guaranteed rights of Nigerians to live and conduct business anywhere in the country.
Obi said the Sanwo-Olu government-led action was against unity, fairness, justice and national cohesion required by the country for development. In a reaction on Monday, May 4, the former Anambra governor said he “vehemently opposes any form of discrimination” against citizens of Nigeria irrespective of their state of residence.
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“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.
“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,” Obi said.
He called on affected Osun residents to remain calm amid confusion that arose because of the deportation. He called on security agencies to “closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety of the deported youths.
“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,” Peter Obi added.
