Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has said Nigerians were better off together, declaring that agitations for secession were “totally out of place”.
“The unity of Nigeria is not negotiable; those agitating for a divided nation should channel their country toward building a strong and virile nation with opportunities for all,” he said on Sunday in Jos.
Lalong spoke at an interdenominational Church Service at ECWA Headquarters Church, Jos organised as part of activities to mark the 57th anniversary of Nigeria Independence.
The governor stated that instead of seeking to secede, Nigerians should explore the advantage of being together so as to make the utmost use of our diversities.
He said: “Rather than secession, I am an advocate of true federalism where diverse interests would better be served.
“Well meaning Nigerians should continue to pray and work for the unity and peace of the country.”
Lalong appreciated Plateau State residents’ commitment to peace, and challenged everyone to be his or her brother’s or sister’s keeper.
Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Gado, the ECWA President, in his message, tasked Nigerians to purge themselves of vices that had stopped them from enjoying true independence.
Gado said corruption, dishonesty, greed and pride were hampering country’s progress, and called for mutual cooperation as interdependence was a key requisite for true independence.
“We need to depend on each other if we are to attain our destiny in the comity of nations,” he said.
Colonel Lander Saraso, the Operations Officer, Operation Safe Haven, charged with maintaining peace on the Plateau, in his speech, assured the people of the outfit’s commitment to safety and peace in the state.
Saraso, however, said it needed the support and prayers of the people to succeed in that assignment.
Prayers were offered for unity and peace in Plateau State and Nigeria.
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