The Lagos State Government has charged citizens to be committed to efforts geared towards establishing peaceful and harmonious coexistence in the State.
This was disclosed by Director, Lagos State Public Advice Centre, Mr. Tunji Dawodu at a sensitisation campaign held at Olorunda Local Council Development Area, Badagry.
Dawodu who led the team to the community revealed that the exercise was part of the move to engage Lagosians on their role in promoting an harmonious society where development can thrive.
Speaking at the event, the Director explained that the establishment of the Public Advise Centre serves as the first port of call for citizens in distress and those seeking information and advice on their rights and responsibilities.
According to him, in every human society, disputes and controversies are inevitable, and as a progressive government, we must continue to seek positive ways to manage these challenges and make the society peaceful and better.
He declared that the State government has resolved to enlighten the citizens on positive approaches in resolving some of the recurrent issues in the society noting that the government is committed to due diligence and fairness in resolving issues.
He addded that peculiar issues in our society such as marital dispute, tenancy controversies, property management, environmental related matters as well as family and inheritance matters should not be nipped in the bud immediately before escalating to unmanageable proportions and threatening societal peace.
He noted that the advocacy campaign was designed to educate Lagosians especially people at the grassroots on their rights and responsibilities.
The Director stressed on the free legal advice offered by the centre and referral of special cases to other appropriate Agencies of the Lagos State Government which according to him are always followed up till resolved.
Responding to questions from members of the community, Dawodu affirmed that cases such as land grabbing, property theft, environmental pollution, tenancy issue, community dues are always referred to other agencies of government including Office of the Public Defender (OPD), Citizens Mediation Center (CMC) Landgrabbers, Administrator-General and Public Trustee, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA)and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency amongst others.
While urging members of the community to always seek alternative dispute resolution channels provided by the government, the Director emphasized on the need for people to shun violence and be law abiding
Applauding the state government for the outreach, the leadership of the community attested to the free legal services and timely resolution of issues by the Centre, stating that the community development association would continue to preach the clarion for peace and harmony.
