Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Against the backdrop of inciting comments across the country in recent times, political parties, government institutions, civil society organisations, and citizens at large have been implored to prioritise national interests above personal or parochial agenda.
The call was made by a political pressure group, Arewa Youths Group of Concerned Nigerians during a press conference in Bauchi yesterday, stressing: “It is only through collective action and inclusive dialogue that we can overcome the obstacles that hinder our progress as a nation. We urge all stakeholders to foster an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance. It is incumbent upon each of us to refrain from engaging in divisive rhetoric and to promote unity, harmony, and peace within our communities.”
The Group led by Comrade Abubakar Hamma Galafi stated: “As responsible and patriotic citizens, we remain committed to the rejuvenation of our great nation through the implementation of effective policies aimed at fostering positive change. Regrettably, our endeavours have been overshadowed by disparaging remarks from individuals who should exemplify higher standards. It is crucial that we take this opportunity to call for decorum, as the preservation of sanity, unity, and security within our country hangs in the balance.”
“We appeal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigerian youths, and all concerned citizens to recognise the irreplaceable nature of our nation. Our democracy serves as the bedrock upon which our collective aspirations and yearnings find expression. Our diversity, a divine endowment, remains unchangeable by any but the divine Himself,” he added.
According to him, “it is imperative that we embrace unity and progress as the guiding principles for our collective journey. While legal recourse is being pursued to address our concerns, we emphasize the need to exercise caution and avoid hasty conclusions. We earnestly implore all individuals to desist from making unnecessary comments and hurling insults targeting specific regions, ethnic groups, or religious affiliations. Failure to adhere to this call for restraint, will only serve to fuel further tensions and hostilities.”
