2023: Refrain from politics of bitterness, division, Sanwo-Olu charges Nigerians

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday charged Nigerians to focus on issues and refrain from the politics of division and bitterness as the 2023 general elections approach.
Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the charge during an event to mark Nigeria’s 62nd Independence Anniversary in Lagos.
The governor said: “We must respect divergent opinions and respect the fact that the beauty of democracy lies in the fact that we will not all share the same ideological and political views, what we want, and what is not negotiable, is a better country.”
Sanwo-Olu admonished residents to use the celebration to rededicate themselves to a Greater Lagos of our collective desire.
He said: “We remain committed to making Lagos State a 21st Century economy, a Smart City State that is prosperous and globally competitive.
“We have what it takes to drive this mandate. We will continue to be the pacesetter of Nigeria in infrastructural development, industrialization, culture and hospitality, technology and innovation.
“We will build a state that works for all, in which there will be equal opportunity for everyone to pursue their legitimate aspirations.”
While calling for a rededication to nation-building, Sanwo-Olu said: “Every October 1st is a time to reflect on the journey of our nationhood, to rededicate ourselves to the task of nation-building, and continue to work hard at building a formidable nation in Africa and the world at large.
“This year also marks the 23rd year since the birth of our fourth Republic, our most successful democratic journey in the history of our nation.
“We truly have a lot to be grateful for. Amidst many odds and challenges, we have continued to exist as one strong country, recording progress on many fronts.”
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria is blessed with an energetic population, resourceful and laden with entrepreneurial energy, a free and vibrant press, a youth population that is increasingly politically aware, a democracy that is not complacent, and a thriving appetite among all the people for good governance.
He paid tribute to past heroes of Nigeria’s democracy, calling them worthy heroes.