Lagosians have chosen dialogue, going by the huge response to the state Government’s introduction of three telephone lines on which residents can interact with officials. The numbers are for the Ministry of Youth & Social Development (+2347077178295), Information and Strategy (+2348119655788), and the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (+2348025224347).
Within 24 hours of unveiling the telephone numbers, an average of 200 calls were received by each Ministry. Callers acknowledged the peace that existed during the recent protest and urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to sustain the programmes put in place to reduce the present economic burden on Lagosians.
Top on the list of requests is the return of “Ounje Eko” Sunday market across Lagos State; the 25% rebate on fares paid on all state transportation platforms and concessions in the health sector.
A resident said; “Please, we are asking Governor Sanwo-Olu to return the discount on BRT bus fares. A trip from Ipaja BRT, which was reduced from N800 to N600, is back to N800, but we would appreciate it if the Governor directs the BRT Operators to take it down again. This will help us reduce our daily cost of transportation”.
Ayomide Olarinmoye, a student from Ekiti State University, inquired about accessing Federal student loans. Nkechi Ajubike highlighted hunger and suggested a temporary subsidy for six months to alleviate economic hardship.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso said: “This is the way it should be. This is Lagos. We will always choose dialogue above violence, which is never our way”.
Speaking further on the government’s initiatives, the Commissioner maintained that the Sanwo-Olu administration would continue to empower youths and students by providing training and equipment to those who opt to become entrepreneurs.
“The ongoing engagement with youths is expected to bridge the gap between the youth population and foster a collaborative approach to governance”, Omotoso said.
AA/TMS/KO
