The governor urged the youths to drop the question about “who ordered the shooting?” and put themselves in his situation. “Young people do not do roleplay and sit back to reflect on what happened. It was not a flash event. It built up for three weeks. I do not have control. I do not control the military or the police,” he said.
He further explained that he went out that night, visited hospitals, and saw things for himself. He reported what he saw and has since reached out to all #EndSARS victims in Lagos, supporting them with jobs and empowerment.
“All of the people — and I am saying this for the first time on national TV — that claimed that they were either injured or affected in one form or the other, I, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have reached out to them and supported, given them jobs and empowerment and things for them to start right. And that is why you do not see anybody come out during this campaign period to say ‘I was an #EndSars victim and I lost something,’ because I have taken it up and I feel that is something for me as a father and a leader to do for them, and clear this air around it,” he added.
The governor's statement has sparked reactions from different quarters, with some praising him for his actions while others are questioning the sincerity of his intentions. Nevertheless, the governor's message to the youths to take a step back and reflect on their actions and roles during the #EndSARS protests is one that resonates with many, especially in the wake of increasing tension and violence in the country.