The Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reacted to his electoral victory in the state governorship election held over the weekend. INEC in the early hours of today declared him the winner of the election.
Speaking shortly after the declaration, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagosians have made their voices heard. Part of his speech reads
“To all of our fellow contestants, we want to salute you for participating in the democratic process, but Lagosians have spoken and have spoken well. They have spoken loud. Please remember that we’re extending a hand of fellowship to you, no victor, no vanquished. In the true spirit of sportsmanship, if you indeed believe that you want to serve this state, you have an opportunity with us and we will open our doors to listen and to give you a space in this government.”
He also spoke out against the identity politics that became commonplace in the lead-up to the polls last Saturday.
“During this campaign, unfortunately, we have seen very divisive rhetoric which is not a definition of who we are. So, Lagosians, we need to come together and further rebuild the capacity, the competence, and the experience that we have in this city. Religion should not divide us, ethnicity will not divide us. Lagos will come out bigger, stronger, and better.”