Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu embarked on a campaign tour of major markets populated by South‑East traders on Tuesday, ahead of Saturday’s governorship election. The visit followed an open endorsement of his re‑election by the Ndigbo community in the state. At an open forum organized by the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association in the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, the governor received a rousing welcome from traders. He pledged to ensure the safety of Ndigbo businesses and properties in Lagos.
Sanwo‑Olu also met with Igbo traders from 58 major markets across the city, who, under the Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, unanimously backed his re‑election. His engagements continued at the popular Computer Village in Ikeja, a hub for mobile phones, computers and other electronics. These interactions were prompted by concerns over the safety of South‑East traders’ businesses and assets. The governor allayed their fears, assuring that Lagos would remain a melting pot for all Nigerians and that his administration would continue to foster security and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups.
“I am here on a solidarity visit to thank you for your public endorsement, which I believe will be reflected at the polls on Saturday with the highest number of votes from your community,” he said. “You are not supporting us for anything; you believe we deserve this encouragement because my team and I have worked tirelessly to improve your well‑being.” He highlighted upcoming projects, including a new General Hospital in Ojo, completed expressways and bridges, and a rail project to Okokomaiko that will facilitate the movement of people and goods. “Lagos is on the path of growth. Through your cooperation and peaceful coexistence, we can build not only the state but a better country for ourselves,” the governor added.
Sanwo‑Olu assured the Igbo traders of his government’s commitment to their prosperity, noting the recent state approval for the development of Badagry Seaport to boost economic development and logistics, especially the movement of goods. He pledged continued safety and security for non‑indigenes in Lagos and urged traders not to heed scaremongers who threaten them because of electoral choices. “We will keep working with your leadership to enhance cooperation and identify areas for improvement to foster peace and stability. We will not be hostile to any non‑indigene community. As long as you conduct yourselves peacefully, your safety remains our priority. No law‑abiding resident should be scared,” he said.
ASPAMDA President Chief Ngozi Emechebe described Sanwo‑Olu as “a true friend of the Igbo,” noting that the governor has never been hostile to non‑Yoruba residents. She explained that the forum was initiated to reaffirm the Ndigbo community’s support for Sanwo‑Olu’s re‑election, with traders committing to work for his victory at their respective polling stations. “Sanwo‑Olu is a good man and has demonstrated that he loves the Igbo. We have resolved to support him for a second term because of his performance and economic policies that have benefited our businesses. Through this forum, we assure the governor that we will sing the song of victory together with him.”
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