The Lagos State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Jimi Agabje, has challenged the ruling All Progressives Congress to be prepared for resistance in the event of violence in the March 9 governorship election.
Agbaje, in a series of videos posted on his verified Twitter account on Friday, decried the violence reported at several polling units across the state during the presidential and National Assembly elections last Saturday.
He said he had visited some areas affected by voter suppression and violence, adding that it was understandable why some Lagosians were disappointed, angry or afraid.
He said, “Undoubtedly, what played out last weekend was a clear violation of the social contract between the government and its citizens. Every Nigerian has a fundamental right to life, civil liberties and right to vote among other things.
“So, when you have a situation where thousands of people are put in harm’s way just because they choose to exercise this right while the government turns a blind eye, it has broken that contract.
“Last week, the oppression was at the polling station. This week, businesses were threatened. Tomorrow, God forbid, it could extend to our homes. The only way for us to stop this tyranny is to vote out the tyrants.”
Agbaje commended Lagosians who, according to him, took the time and effort and made sacrifices to ensure that their votes counted, adding that sitting the coming election out was not an option.
“Let Lagosians have their say in peace. To everyone that has a stake in the commonwealth in the Lagos, irrespective of your tribe, political affiliation or religion, I say rise up. Rise up for Lagos. Use your vote. It’s your voice; it’s your right. See you at the polls.”
