In response to the planned nationwide protests starting on August 1st, the Lagos State Government has affirmed the citizens’ right to peaceful demonstrations. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the state government, conveyed this message during a meeting with the Secretaries to the Local Governments.

Salu-Hundeyin emphasized that protesting is a legitimate right and there is nothing wrong with it. However, she cautioned that the protests should not turn violent or destructive. She urged the protesters to maintain peace and order during their demonstrations.

Despite recognizing the right to protest, Salu-Hundeyin suggested that there might be no need for protests in Lagos. She stated that the state has been doing well in serving its citizens and addressing their needs.

The Lagos State Government’s stance is clear: while supporting the right to peaceful protests, they also stress the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding violence.

Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the state government stated,

“It is a legitimate right for citizens to protest, as there is nothing wrong in it, but people should be wary that it does not turn violent and destructive.

“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.

“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”.