Xenophobia: Lagos condemns attacks on Shoprite, MTN, DSTV, others
Admin l Tuesday, September 04, 2019
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has condemned in totality, retaliatory attacks on Shoprite complexes, MTN, DSTV and other companies owned by South Africans in the state, following Xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and destruction of their properties and means of livelihood in South Africa.
Angry Nigerians on Monday invaded Shoprite complexes in Sangotedo and Jakande, all in Lekki invaded the complexes looting. What followed was the killing of a young man by policeman, forcing the mob to set a police van on fire.
But in a statement, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho said the attacks are against the Nigerian spirit of accommodation and benevolence that the country in general and Lagos State in particular is noted for.
“The Federal Government is in dialogue with South African Authorities to stop this obnoxious act. We appeal to our compatriots to eschew violence and any unlawful acts. The Lagos State Government wishes to reiterate its commitment to providing a conducive atmosphere where businesses are conducted without hindrances.
“The security agencies have been directed to ensure that law and order prevail in all parts of the State, even as Lagosians are advised to go about their activities without any fear”, he said.
See the full statement below:
The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to the attacks on Shoprite Complexes at Jakande and Sangotedo Area of Ajah by some unidentified people claiming to be acting in retaliation against the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
These attacks are condemned as they are against the Nigerian spirit of accommodation and benevolence that the country in general and Lagos State in particular is noted for.
The Federal Government is in dialogue with South African Authorities to stop this obnoxious act. We appeal to our compatriots to eschew violence and any unlawful acts.
The Lagos State Government wishes to reiterate its commitment to providing a conducive atmosphere where businesses are conducted without hindrances.
The security agencies have been directed to ensure that law and order prevail in all parts of the State, even as Lagosians are advised to go about their activities without any fear.
Signed:
Gbenga Omotoso
Commissioner for Information & Strategy
Lagos State
