Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said Lagosians have spoken and made their voices heard after he was declared the winner of Saturday’s gubernatorial election.
Sanwo-Olu stated this in his acceptance speech shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared him re-elected governor of the state.
It was reported earlier that Sanwo-Olu polled 762,134 votes to defeat his closest rival, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party who polled 312,329 and followed by Olajide Adeniran of the Peoples Democratic Party who polled 62,449 votes.
“To all of our fellow contestants, we want to salute you for participating in the democratic process, but Lagosians have spoken and have spoken well. They have spoken loudly. Please remember that we’re extending a hand of fellowship to you, no victor, no vanquished. In the true spirit of sportsmanship, if you indeed believe that you want to serve this state, you have an opportunity with us and we will open our doors to listen and to give you a space in this government,” part of his speech reads.
The governor also denounced the identity politics that had become pervasive in the weeks leading up to last Saturday’s election.
Unfortunately, there has been a lot of harsh talk during this campaign, which is not a reflection of who we are. In order to further rebuild the capability, expertise, and experience that we have in this city, Lagosians must band together. Faith and nationality shouldn’t separate us from one another. Lagos will emerge stronger, better, and bigger.