THE Lagos State government and Information, Culture & Tourism Minister Lai Mohammed last night condemned the attacks on Shoprite outlets in the state.
The Lagos government, in a statement by Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso, said the attacks “are against the Nigerian spirit of accommodation and benevolence that the country”.
The statement reads: “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.”
Mohammed said the attacks on South African businesses in Nigeria would be to the detriment of the country.
In a statement, Mohammed described as deeply disturbing the reports that some Nigerians, angered by the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, have started attacking South African companies in Nigeria.
He said: “Targeting South African companies in Nigeria for attack is, for Nigerians, a classic case of cutting off your nose to spite your face, because the investors in such companies, especially MTN and Shoprite, are Nigerians.”
