President Goodluck Jonathan

By John Shiklam

President Goodluck Jonathan Saturday urged those he described as bent on causing disaffection among Nigerians under whatever guise to desist from such venture and embrace peace.

The president said this in an address at the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 59 Regular Course Cadets and Short Service Course 40 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.

The president, who was represented at the occasion by Vice President Namadi Sambo, said his administration was not relenting in its efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the country.

His plea came as attacks on government property continued Saturday in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, with hoodlums suspected to be members of the Boko Haram sect setting fire on a bus belonging to the state transport service, Yobe Line.

Witnesses say the incident occurred around 3pm at the Gwange junction, in Damaturu metropolis as the hoodlums used highly inflammable substances to set the bus on fire.

The state commissioner of police, Mr. Patrick Egbuniwe, who confirmed the incident, said no life was lost in the attack while the identity of the driver and the manner in which the bus was burnt were yet to be ascertained by the police.

The sect had after launching attacks on telecommunication facilities across the north three days ago commenced destruction of government property in the state.
Jonathan said no nation could make progress in an atmosphere of turmoil and instability, adding that his government is determined to guarantee the security and welfare of Nigerians.

“Those who are bent on causing disaffection among the good people of our country under whatever guise must desist from such unprofitable ventures and embrace our shared aspirations for peace and progress,” he said.