Rhodes-Vivour stated this in a circular released via his Twitter page on Thursday, while lambasting the Speaker for making a move which he described as an attempt to jeopardise economic development and individual empowerment of the state.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, has explained why State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa's newly revealed agenda to make laws that favour only Yoruba indigenes in the state's socioeconomic sectors is illegal and violates some major provisions of the Nigerian constitution.
Rhodes-Vivour stated this in a circular released via his Twitter page on Thursday, while lambasting the Speaker for making a move which he described as an attempt to jeopardise economic development and individual empowerment of the state.
SaharaReproters had earlier reported that Obasa revealed plans by the legislative arm to ensure the enactment of laws and regulations that would favour Yoruba indigenes in matters of property acquisition and business.
The Speaker said this in his acceptance speech as a third-term Speaker of the Lagos parliament and the inauguration of the 10th Lagos assembly.
Reacting to this, Rhodes-Vivour said the speaker’s move may affect Nigerian national unity and national integration.
His statement read, “As a politician deeply committed to upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and justice, I strongly condemn the comments of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly for considering a bill that seeks to reverse property rights in favor of indigenes at the expense of the constitutional recognition of citizenship.
“This move not only undermines the fundamental rights of individuals but also poses a significant threat to the principles of inclusivity and social cohesion that our great nation, Nigeria, stands for.
“The Nigerian Constitution, which serves as the supreme law of the land, recognizes the rights of all citizens, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background, to own and enjoy property. This fundamental constitutional provision is grounded in the belief that every citizen should be treated equally under the law, irrespective of their origin or indigeneship. It is a crucial pillar of our democracy and must be safeguarded at all costs.
“By considering this regressive bill, the Speaker disregards the spirit of the Nigerian Constitution and perpetuates a discriminatory system that divides our society along ethnic lines. Regrettably, this move threatens to erode our progress in promoting unity, national integration, and equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
“Furthermore, it is crucial to recognise that property rights are vital to economic development and individual empowerment. The proposed bill undermines the principle of private ownership and could severely affect investment, economic growth, and overall prosperity in Lagos State. By considering such legislation, the Speaker is sending a damaging message to local and international investors, discouraging their participation and confidence in the state's economy.
“For years, I have strongly advocated for state-sponsored scholarship programs targeting indigenous Lagosians and special housing, healthcare, and economic interventions. I also believe in affirmative action, where 50% of political appointments are reserved for indigenes. More importantly, I have advocated (and continue to advocate) for state laws that protect our heritage, historical sites, and traditional institution from political vandalism. Royal houses must be protected by the law to determine their Kings without political interference.
“Therefore, I call upon well-meaning Lagosians, civil society organisations, elder statesmen, and every citizen to resist this divisive and unconstitutional bill. The Speaker should focus his efforts on legislation that promotes inclusivity, social justice, and the overall welfare of all residents of Lagos State.
“We also look forward to a State Assembly pursuing legislation to tackle youth unemployment and address the misappropriation of public funds and infrastructure financing. We can only build a stronger, more prosperous and harmonious society for all Nigerians by promoting unity and equal rights.”