Xenophobia: ‘I won’t condone violence’ — Sanwo-Olu warns residents against reprisals

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, has warned residents against attacking business places in the state.

Aggrieved Nigerians have taken to vandalising South African-owned businesses over xenophobic attack on fellow citizens abroad.

An MTN office in the Bodija axis of Ibadan, Oyo state, was set on fire on Tuesday evening while Shoprite outlets in Ikeja, Surulere and Lekki areas of Lagos were vandalised.

In a statement on Wednesday, Sanwo-Olu condemned the attack, saying his government will not condone any acts of violence.

He said it is against the value of Nigerians to attempt to solve criminality with criminality and urged residents to remain law-abiding and not take the law into their hands.

“We have watched the disturbing videos of attacks and vandalism against Nigerian nationals and their businesses in South Africa. This precipitated strong reactions by some Nigerians who chose to vent their anger on investments on South Africans in Lagos yesterday,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“As a Government, we condemn the violence visited on innocent people by the hoodlums who attacked Shoprite and other business interests owned by South Africans in Lagos. We cannot attempt to find a solution to a criminality by committing criminality. This is not part of our values as Nigerians.

“Therefore, I wish to state categorically that Lagos will remain safe for all Nigerian citizens and law-abiding foreign nationals who are here for business.

“We will not condone any act that can lead to breakdown of law and order. I implore all residents to go about their lawful businesses without any fear. Lagos will remain open to local and foreign investments.”

The federal government has advised Nigerians against travelling to high risk and volatile areas in South Africa until the current situation is brought under control.