The Association of Lagos State Indigenes (ALSI) has condemned the attack on the palace of the Oba of Lagos Rilwan Akiolu.
The group, in a statement by its president, Alhaji J.A.B. Sanuth, general secretary, Ademola Ajao and Board of Trustees member Layi Ajayi-Bembe, said the demands of the youths were relevant, constitutional and beneficial to the polity.
The statement reads: “We were saddened by the infiltration of the peaceful protest by thugs and street urchins which has led to arson, looting and destruction of properties, looting of shops and burning of properties in the State.
“The control of the infiltrated demonstrations by Government most especially at the Lekki Toll gate evidenced by the videos and publications implied that the Nigerian Army used excessive force to disperse the crowd leading to injuries and possible loss of innocent young Men and Women.
“The consequence chaos in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria which leads to additional injuries and death of other protesters and citizens as well as destruction of public and private property became a thing of concern. May the soul of the deceased ones rest in perfect peace. We also pray God to grant their families the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. ALSI beseech quick recuperation/ recovery to those that were injured nationwide.
“The Association observed that many public and private buildings, heritage and traditional institutions in the State were vandalised, looted and touched by the hoodlums and disgruntled elements who hijacked the protest. The havoc, devilish act and criminalities perpetuated are condemned in strong term and the situation must be abhorred and condemned by all sane, reasonable and responsible people most especially the indigenes and residents of the State.
“The desecration and destruction of our revered and jealously guarded traditional institution, the Palace and paraphernalia of Oba of Lagos, the High Court and Federal Court of Appeal is unacceptable. It appears it is a deliberate and targeted affront on our culture, heritage and institution in the state. These facilities will be reinstituted by tax payers’ fund that would have been used for other developmental needs and activities despite the challenging times economically. We need to preserve our Lagos for the future while preserving the rights of our unborn children.”
The association recommended that the traditional chiefs in Lagos should commence atonement and rites in respect of the desecration of the Oba’s palace.
