Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, has urged Nigerians to remain united and support President Bola Tinubu and security agencies in the fight against terrorism and criminal violence.
In a statement issued on Friday, Sanwo-Olu said recent security incidents across parts of the country should not weaken the resolve of Nigerians.
He said the fight against insecurity should not be viewed through partisan or political lenses, noting that criminal elements target citizens regardless of their political affiliations.
The Lagos governor expressed sympathy for victims of recent attacks and called for prayers for the teachers and students abducted in Oriire LGA of Oyo state.
“We are Nigerians. Our will is strong and our spirit is unbreakable,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“The forces of evil confronting our nation do not ask for our political affiliation before they kill, maim and destroy. So must our resolve and support for our nation be devoid of political leanings and divisive rhetoric.
“Every life lost is a tragedy. Every community threatened by violence deserves our solidarity, support, and protection.”
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria had overcome difficult periods in the past and would emerge stronger from its current security challenges.
The governor called on citizens to support security efforts through vigilance and intelligence sharing, arguing that government alone cannot defeat criminal networks without community cooperation.
“Our country has faced many challenges throughout its history. We have confronted economic setbacks, political instability, social tensions, and security threats. Yet, through resilience, courage, and unity of purpose, we have always emerged stronger,” he said.
“As citizens, we all have a stake in the security and stability of our country. Government alone cannot win this battle without the support, cooperation, vigilance, and active intelligence sharing by the local communities.
“I wish to reiterate my confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and in the ability of our security and intelligence services to defeat the forces of evil unleashing terror attacks on soft targets within the civilian population.
“Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm’s way to defend our nation and preserve our freedoms. They deserve our prayers and our motivation to lift their spirits.”
Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to remain hopeful despite current challenges.
“To our young people, I say: remain hopeful. To our families and communities, I say: remain resilient. To those serving on the frontlines of our nation’s security efforts, I say: remain steadfast,” he said.
“This battle shall be won. Nigeria will prevail because the collective strength of our people is greater than the evil agenda of the few who are bent on making us live in fear and despair.”
