Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the #EndSARS protests of October 2020 as the most challenging period of his time in office. Speaking at an event in Ikeja with fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, the governor reflected on the tough decisions he had to make and the lessons he learned during the crisis.
“That period was one of my toughest moments as a leader,” he admitted, recounting how the widespread protests shook Lagos and tested the resilience of his administration.
The #EndSARS movement, which started as a peaceful call to end police brutality and disband the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), quickly grew into a nationwide demand for better governance and justice. Lagos, being at the center of the movement, witnessed some of the most intense protests, which culminated in the controversial Lekki Toll Gate shooting on October 20, 2020.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the complexity of the situation and how it challenged him personally and professionally. “Leadership is not always easy,” he said, adding that the experience taught him the importance of listening to the people and staying committed to their welfare, even in the face of adversity.
He urged young leaders to take inspiration from Lateef Jakande, a former governor known for his selfless dedication to public service, and to prioritize the needs of the people they serve.
Despite the challenges, Sanwo-Olu reiterated his commitment to the people of Lagos, emphasizing that leadership is about navigating through tough times and remaining accountable to citizens.
His heartfelt reflections serve as a reminder of the weight of leadership and the need for empathy, transparency, and resilience when governing during turbulent times.
Leave a Reply