Lagos — Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Lagos State who was recently quoted as saying that he had been under pressure to introduce the Sharia legal system has declared that the state will continue to be home to all Nigerians irrespective of their religious beliefs or ethnic background.

Speaking while playing host to members of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Nigeria, weekend he said "Lagos State as a secular State welcomes all religions and will not discriminate against any religion."

He explained that Nigerians must continue to co-exist irrespective of their ethnic or religious background due to the fact that the nation remains a multi-religious and multi-ethnic state.

The Lagos State Chief Executive also used the occasion to dispel rumours being peddled that he has imposed heavy taxes on churches for the recently introduced land use charge.

In his words: "It is not true that we are slamming high land use charges on churches and places of worship. It is not true. The church should therefore watch out for deceitful politicians who are out to cause disaffection through misinformation.

Governor Tinubu however pointed out that all stake holders must join hands with the government at putting in place a sound educational system for the youths since they are the future leaders.

He also called on all religious leaders to continue to lay emphasis on moral regenaration in the country since only religious leaders could effectively mobilize the citizenry towards the attainment of such goal.

Governor Tinubu also assured that his administration would continue to pursue people oriented programmes throughout his tenure.

Speaking earlier, General Secretary of the church in Nigeria, Elder Boaye Dankwa commended the Governor for the wonderful ways in which he has been steering the affairs of Lagos State since he assumed office more than three years ago."

He also used the opportunity of the occasion to brief Governor Tinubu on activities of the Church in Nigeria.