The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that the proposed "Walk for Peace" has been suspended due to a rise in cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
Sanwo-Olu said this on Thursday in a statement, adding that his decision to stand down on the peace walk was to protect the lives of the people.
He said, "When the unseen enemy called COVID-19 began to ravage the world and indeed our nation, I assumed the role of the Incident Commander in our quest to protect the lives of our people. We subjected ourselves to the dictates of science.
"We chose to be guided not by our emotions, but expert opinions rooted in science. Between November 30, 2021, that I made my address and now, we have seen a significant rise in cases associated with the Omicron variant of this pandemic.
"Given this development, I am constrained to stand down all preparations for the ‘Walk for Peace.’ I will not endanger the life of any Lagosian in my sincere search for peace."
The governor also expressed his appreciation for the support he received from youths, students and civil society support groups.
"I am overwhelmed by the outpouring of support the initiative received from far and near. The deluge of support is, however, indicative of one thing, our people know the strategic place of peace to our quest for development.
"I owe a special debt of gratitude to our youths and students, who reached out to either members of my team or directly to me, expressing their readiness to join me on the planned Walk for Peace,” he added.