…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
The Labour Party candidate for the Lagos state governorship in the 2023 election, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has expressed strong disapproval of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.
This comes in response to Obasa’s alleged statement that the Assembly would enact laws to safeguard the property rights of indigenous residents.
Warning Against Ethnic Division
Rhodes-Vivour took to Twitter to condemn the Speaker’s stance, cautioning against any legislation that could potentially create divisions among the residents of Lagos along ethnic lines.
He argued that any law aiming to reverse property rights in favor of indigenous people at the expense of other residents would be divisive and contrary to the economic interests of Lagos.
Upholding Fundamental Rights
The governorship candidate emphasized that such a move would undermine the fundamental rights of all residents, as protected by the Nigerian Constitution.
He called on Lagosians to resist what he referred to as a “divisive bill” that could deter local and international investors from participating in the Lagos economy.
Negative Impact on Investment
Rhodes-Vivour expressed concern that the proposed law would have adverse effects on investment, economic growth, and overall prosperity in Lagos.
He argued that by considering legislation of this nature, the Speaker is sending a detrimental message to investors, eroding their confidence and discouraging their engagement in the state’s economy.
Advocating for Heritage Protection
In light of these concerns, Rhodes-Vivour urged the Assembly to focus on enacting laws that safeguard the preservation of heritage, historical sites, and traditional institutions from political vandalism.
He called for measures that would protect these important aspects of Lagos’s culture and history, emphasizing the need to prioritize their conservation rather than pursuing divisive legislation.
Conclusion:
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party governorship candidate for Lagos state, criticized the Speaker of the House of Assembly for his alleged remarks on property rights.
Rhodes-Vivour warned against laws that could create divisions among Lagos residents and urged the Assembly to prioritize the protection of heritage and historical sites.
He emphasized the negative impact such proposed legislation could have on investment, economic growth, and the overall prosperity of Lagos.