Ahead of Saturday’s governorship and House of Assembly, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has cautioned traditional institutions to respect the rights of citizens who are not of their faith.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the governor “assured Lagosians of peaceful elections tomorrow. There is no need for fear."
“Following the recent announcement of some customary rites by traditional rulers, the government wishes to assure all residents of the security of lives and property in the state," the statement in part reads.
According to the statement, “residents are advised to go about their civic duties as the state government has called on all security personnel to guarantee the peace and safety of lives and property before, during, and after elections."
“Whilst the state government reiterates the freedom of religion, it also cautions traditional institutions holding these customary rites to ensure the activities do not infringe on the fundamental rights of citizens, who are not of this faith, especially during the elections.
“Anybody planning to foment trouble will have the law to contend with. Our state is peaceful and it will remain so,” the statement added.
Recall that there has been some backlash regarding the holding of Oro festival in several communities of the state in the days leading to the election on Saturday.