Our resolve for peaceful, united, 1 Nigeria remains unwavering – Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has said that his government’s resolve for a peaceful, united and one Nigeria remained resolute and unwavering.
In his nationwide broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary on Friday in Abuja, the President vowed to continue to ensure the welfare and security of lives and properties of all citizens in line with the nation’s constitution.
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The president advised all citizens to always avoid violence while trying to settle grievances or socio-political misunderstandings, saying grievances could be settled peacefully.
In his words, “In line with Section 14 (2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the security and welfare of Nigerians continue to be the prime focus on which programmes and projects of our Government revolves.
“Therefore, as a Government, we are ready to arrest and prosecute all persons inciting violence through words or actions. Our resolve for a peaceful, united and one Nigeria remains resolute and unwavering.
“That said, our hope is not to fight for peace. We can always settle our grievances peacefully without spilling any blood.
“I will, therefore, take this opportunity, on this special day that symbolises the unity and oneness of our great nation to ask all Nigerians to embrace peace and dialogue, whatever your grievances.
“The seeds of violence are planted in people’s heads through words. Reckless utterances of a few have led to loss of many innocent lives and destruction of properties.
“Such unfiltered and unsubstantiated lies and hate speeches by a few evil persons must be stopped.’’
Buhari also enjoined media houses and commentators to always move away from merely reporting irresponsible remarks to investigating the truth behind all statements and presenting the facts to readers.
Our resolve for peaceful, united, 1 Nigeria remains unwavering – Buhari