Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) on Thursday provided an apology for the misunderstanding generated by the alleged deportation of some destitutes to Onitsha, Anambra State.
The state authorities had been accused of dumping 70 beggars at Onitsha Bridge on July 24, a scenario that generated public outcry and dangerous blood.
Fashola, who spoke on the silver jubilee of the Igbo socio-cultural assume tank, Aka Ikenga held on the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, mentioned:
"I got here right here to say thanks for the honour executed to my household and the reminiscence of my late father. People who clearly don't perceive the actions taken and phrases spoken are these I owe a proof."
"I can not take the Igbos without any consideration as a result of now we have constructed a relationship primarily based on tolerance, mutual respect, love and belief. That relationship was constructed by our ancestors and I put lots of worth in that relationship."
"I supply an unreserved apology if the actions taken had been misunderstood. But I feel the fundamental subject Aka Ikenga should tackle is why folks really feel compelled to immigrate from one a part of the nation to the opposite? Is it the case that some lack the sources to develop or maybe some components are endowed with monumental sources however not adequately managed? How can improvement be so troublesome from the zone that has produced folks like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Alex Ekwueme, Ike Nwachukwu, amongst others?"
"As political storm gathers, there are contact spots however like in soccer, contact spots have guidelines. Those who're victims of our shortcomings as professionals out and in of presidency shouldn't be pounced. A day like these requires deep reflection about problems with our loyalties. Are we extra Igbo than Nigeria or we're extra Nigeria than Igbo?"