Governor of Lagos state, Akinwunmi Ambode, weekend, reiterated his administration’s stance on equitable distribution of the dividend of democracy, saying he would be fair to all people in Lagos in dispensing good governance. TOPE MUSOWO reports
Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, Saturday, joined Muslims in the state to celebrate the 2017 Eid-el-Kabir festival, with a pledge to ensure that the dividend of good governance is evenly and fairly distributed.
Speaking at Iberekodo Primary School in Ibeju Lekki, one of the 20 centres designated by the state government to mark the festival, Governor Ambode reiterated that as part of his promises to run an all inclusive government, no part of the state will be left behind in the scheme of aff airs, just as he urged residents to continue to play their parts to bring about the desired transformation.
He rejoiced with the Muslim Ummah in the state, saying that the celebration signifi ed the triumph of faith and the assurance that Almighty Allah will always open a way for those who have absolute trust in his grace.
“Th is is a day of sacrifi ce to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s faith in Allah.
In this celebration, there is great lesson for all of us especially as we strive to achieve the Lagos of our collective dream.
“We must remain hopeful and keep faith in the absolute power of Allah to turn our aspirations into reality.
It is however, very important, for all of us to play our own part just as Prophet Ibrahim did,” Governor Ambode said.
Th e governor specifi cally used the occasion to assure residents of the State of his commitment to their welfare irrespective of tribe, colour or creed.
Explaining the rationale behind the simultaneous celebration of the festival across 20 centres in the State, Governor Ambode said before now, residents fl ock the Lagos House to celebrate with the fi rst family during any festive period, thereby subjecting them to travel long distance, but that the new method would ensure everyone is catered for as part of the commitment of his administration ensure inclusiveness.
“Let me again use this opportunity to reassure all residents that we remain committed to the welfare and well being of all citizens irrespective of their location within the State without prejudice to ethnic, religious and socio economic background.
“We will ensure that the dividend of good governance is evenly and fairly distributed in line with our pledge not to leave any part of the State behind,” he said.
Besides, Governor Ambode thanked Lagosians for showing absolute faith in the ability of the present administration to continue to deliver on the electoral mandate as demonstrated by the overwhelming vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the recent local government election in the state.
Speaking with journalists, Governor Ambode urged Nigerians to continue to spread love and uphold religious tolerance for the progress of the country.
He said: “Th e whole essence of this celebration is to share love and to also touch people who are in need.
We must continue to spread love and preach love.
With religious tolerance, Nigeria will be better.
“For obvious reasons, Lagos has been very peaceful.
Our attitude has changed positively.
We are more peaceful, we are very calm and Lagosians are seeing that that attitude is what can give us prosperity and that is what I want the people to continue to uphold,” the governor said.
