Governor Fashola condemns soldiers over Lagos rampage

Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has condemned the activities of soldiers who went on a rampage to avenge the death of their colleague in Lagos yesterday.

The soldiers destroyed several BRT buses and caused hardship to commuters in Lagos yesterday by bringing the major Ikorodu road to a standstill through acts of wilful destruction.

Governor Fashola who said he was still waiting for a report on the incident, yet condemned the soldiers as irresponsible if the report fingered them as the culprits.

The Army has denied involvement of its soldiers, however eyewitnesses have pictures of soldiers carrying out the acts of destruction.

Governor Fashola said “There is an allegation that someone who was not supposed to be on the BRT route was on it. As far I know, if something happens to you while you are conducting an unlawful act it is  a criminal offence.

“ But it is really disappointing  that public servants, and that is what soldiers are, paid with tax payer’s money, will act in a manner that is being  suggested.

“I am waiting for the  official report to let me know who played what role and what happened. And whether the Brigade Commander has been able to identify the people who committed the offence. If it turns out to be true, it will be a very irresponsible conduct, to put it very mildly.

“In 2006  soldiers stormed   the Area C Police Station. We have just managed to reconstruct it. If buses that citizens are complaining are  not enough are set ablaze, I do not know how setting ablaze buses recompense any injury that one may have suffered. I do not know how damaging public property is the restitution for  any injury that may have come. For now, the only thing that I can say to you is that when I get the full fact, I will address the residents, to let them know what happened and what the state action will be.

“I have been in touch with the Brigade commander, who assured  me  that he was managing the situation. Nothing I have here is verified, I am waiting for a  formal report before we can ventilate a position”.