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KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA
The Government and People of Kogi State have watched events of the last few days in our sister states of Abia and Rivers with concern. The confrontations between the Nigerian Army and a group of citizens alleged to be members of a group known as Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has led to avoidable violence.
The fallout has been a massive blame game by Nigerians which, depending on the viewpoint of each commentator, favours or indicts either the military or the group. We believe the only thing achieved by all of these is further polarisation of the polity.
It is our strong belief that this is both sad and unacceptable in a Nation where there are sufficient laws and regulations detailing rules of engagement and codes of conduct for the military and the civil populace, jointly and respectively. We therefore call on everyone involved in the situation to abide by the extant laws of the land, starting with the Constitution.
We remind our fellow citizens everywhere that no matter how strongly they may feel about their preferred opinions on the state of the nation, they must remain law-abiding in vocalising or pursuing them. The virtues of not engaging in conduct in one part which may set off a chain of negative reactions in other parts cannot be overemphasised.
We understand that our Military has had a most difficult job keeping all of us safe, especially in the last couple of years following the rise of insurgency in the North East. While commending them for doing their duty, we urge for that extra pinch of patience in dealing with all shades of opinions among citizens, even those they may consider as misguided sentiments.
We stand with His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari(GCFR), on the commitment to One Nigeria where peace and justice for all shall reign supreme. On our part, we reiterate that Kogi State shall remain safe and welcoming at all times to all Nigerians of goodwill.
We commiserate with the people of Rivers and Abia States on any loss of lives or property, and call on their respective Governors to continue to defend the Constitution and Unity of Nigeria always. We assure them of our support even as we pray for a rapid return of peace to all troubled areas.
– YAHAYA BELLO
Executive Governor of Kogi State.
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