Peter Obi condemns deportation of Osun indigenes by Lagos govt

Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, has condemned the deportation of over 300 residents of Lagos to Osun State by the Lagos State government.

The state government had in a statement on Monday by Gbenga Omotoso the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, explained that the action was a statewide exercise to free Lagos of visible security risks, which it said had continued after the arrest of some suspects under the Dolphin Estate bridge.

“The ceaseless influx of miscreants, beggars, and the destitute onto Lagos streets has raised fears of insecurity of lives and property. This is unacceptable,” the statement said.

“As part of the exercise, 450 miscreants were at the weekend rescued. Of the lot, 371 pleaded for assistance to relocate to their various states due to the hardship they are facing in Lagos; 79 have been absorbed into some government facilities for rehabilitation after showing signs of being unwell.

“The exercise will continue as part of the government’s responsibility to keep our citizens safe and secure.”

However, Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State in a statement via his X handle @PeterObi, condemned the decision, arguing that it’s illegal to deport citizens from their own country.

“I am deeply saddened and shocked by the recent reports of the deportation of citizens mostly of Osun State origin by Lagos State authorities. This is not merely a concern for Osun State but for all Nigerians who uphold the principles of unity, fairness, and justice,” he said.

“I find this action very distasteful because of the far-reaching effects it will have on our National cohesion and development. As a pan-Nigerian advocate, I vehemently oppose any form of discrimination, injustice, or violation of our citizens’ rights.

“Every Nigerian, irrespective of their state of origin or place of residence, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Let us always remember that we are all Nigerians, united by a common destiny. And that it is our collective duty to uphold the values of unity, fairness, and justice, and to stand against any form of discrimination or injustice. Our constitution guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to reside and find livelihood in any and every part of the federation.

“I implore all Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant as we await the outcome of the investigation. Meanwhile, the security agencies in Osun State are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of the deported youths.

“Together, let us strive for a Nigeria where every citizen is accorded dignity and respect, regardless of their background or place of origin or residence. A new and different Nigeria is indeed possible! Let us strive towards it in unity.”