ACN to FG: Lagos is not available for occupation

The Action Congress of Nigeria has told the Federal Government and by extension the Peoples Democratic Party on which platform it rode to power that Lagos State is not available for them to occupy.

The ACN, in a statement by its Lagos State chairman, Otunba Henry Ajomale, said that the decision of the Federal Government to deploy the military on the streets of the state over non-violent protests due to the recent increase in the cost of petrol price was a sign of desperation on its part to “occupy” the state.

Ajomale said the thinking of the party was that the issue of Boko Haram should be enough for the Federal Government to contend with, without creating more issues for itself.

He said it was also instructive for the Federal Government to know that it was the same people it is now trying to intimidate that voted for it in the last election, reminding it that another election year is almost around the corner.

He said further in the statement: “We are aware of hidden agenda by the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) to “take over Lagos” by hook or crook. If this unwarranted military invasion is the sign- post of that evil scheme, we advise that this be discontinued forthwith. The peace and harmony that exist in Lagos State should not be disturbed for clandestine objectives.

“We make bold to remind the Federal Government that a match stick that is mischievously ignited could become a rage that is impossible to contain.

“Lagos State is not available for occupation! Let the peace of Lagos be sustained. We consequently demand the immediate withdrawal of the soldiers from our streets.”

The party thanked Nigerians for their maturity during the petrol price increase protests, adding: “In particular, we salute the citizens of Lagos State for their steadfastness and attendance at each centre where Nigerians from all walks of  life, from all the States of the country, all the religions, all the professions, and all the vocations, including those who are physically challenged,  converged daily as brothers and sisters of one united family. We commend them for their great restraint despite isolated provocation.

“We sympathise with the family of innocent, unarmed and harmless Demola Abiodun of Ogba-Agege, Lagos State who lost his life on Monday, 9th January 2012, to a bullet allegedly aimed at him without provocation by a Senior Police Officer. We pray that God forgives Demola’s sins, grant eternal repose to his soul, and console his family. Amen.

“Also, we sympathise with his friends who were playing football with him, and were seriously injured by the same Senior Police Officer. May God grant you all speedy recovery. Amen.

“In spite of these, we appreciate the Lagos State Police Command for being able to overcome this isolated overzealousness by a Superior Officer. We are encouraged that the State Commissioner of Police rose promptly to the occasion when he ordered the arrest of the culprit. The Lagos State Police then after discharged their official duties of providing security at all the protest centres, and all over Lagos State in accordance with the law.”