For the first time ever, traders of the Igbo-dominated Alaba International Market in Lagos shut their stores on Saturday in solidarity with the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, Akinwunmi Ambode.
Accompanied by an APC campaign train that the had Vice-President elect, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Ambode was greeted with cheers from the excited traders in an overwhelming fashion, as his train moved through the market.
One of the leaders of the Industrial Market Union of the Alaba Market said the decision to close their shops to gather in support for Ambode, was borne out their unanimous resolve to contribute to the sustained progress and prosperity of Lagos.
Ambode expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from the Alaba landlords, and promised a Lagos where dividends of governance will be given without discrimination.
He stressed that a vote for him and the APC in the gubernatorial poll is a vote for Lagos, as that will make the state get even better in terms of growth and development.
“With the APC government at the centre, our economy is set to get a boost, and infrastructure is also set for a remarkable rise. But you know what, Lagos state has been our home, and we will largely benefit from this possibility only when we all vote for the APC at all levels in the state elections. It will be for the good of your businesses, your livelihood and further prosperity”, Ambode said.
“My dear brothers and sisters, Lagos is moving to the next level, and with this commitment you have shown to support continuity, we shall reap the benefits together”, he assured.
While urging them to vote for the APC governorship candidate, Professor Osinbajo saluted the Alaba traders for the massive turnout, and tasked them to shun any form of ethnic bias ahead of the gubernatorial elections in the state.
“Bad governance doesn’t know tribes nor religion, and fortunately, this is the same for good governance. Make una no do wayo vote next Saturday oh. Vote for the APC, vote for Ambode, to ensure that Lagos grabs this opportunity to get to a next level where every Nigerian in Lagos will enjoy”, Osinbajo said.
The overwhelming Alaba acceptance again proves that the ethnic nationalities in Lagos are ready to partake in the continuity of excellence by voting Ambode as the next governor of the state.
Meanwhile, in his Easter message to Lagosians, Ambode urged the people to imbibe the spirit of love, perseverance and renewal.
In an Easter message released over the weekend, Ambode urged residents of the state to use the holy season of Easter to reconnect with the common thread of humanity that connects people together, especially at this period that Lagosians are forthright about the sanctity of their future.
“I offer my warmest greetings as I join fellow Christians all over Lagos in celebrating the resurrection of Christ, the salvation he offered the world and the hope that comes with this important season of renewal.
“For me and countless others, the Easter period is a time for reflection and renewal. We remember the grace of an awesome God and in recalling all that Christ endured for us, we cannot but be inspired, guided and strengthened by this period that reminds us of our responsibilities to God and to one another,” he stated.
Urging Lagosians to use the occasion of Easter to reflect on its significance in the life of a nation, Ambode noted that this year’s celebration coincided with a period when residents are preparing for a process that will guarantee the future prosperity of the state.
He, therefore, reminded of the need to let the spirit of love, perseverance and sacrifice guide their conduct in order to preserve the state as a prime example in peaceful conduct, tolerance and good governance.
“With people of various tribes and creed cohabiting peacefully, Lagos State is a leading example in human relations. This is the time to come together and renew our faith in the state we are all contributing to develop.
“We must rise to the possibilities of greatness that this state offers and rededicate ourselves to the cause to keep it on the path of progress and excellence,” he stated.
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