Former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida has called on Nigerians to shun every form of discrimination and vices that can trigger senseless violence and bloodshed in the country.
Babangida, in a statement made available to New Telegraph yesterday, spoke against the recent killings in the country.
The former military Head of State commended the nation’s gallant fallen heroes as the nation observes this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day. January 15th of every year is set aside to remember Officers and Men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who laid down their lives for the unity of our country.
While calling on Nigerians to cooperate with security agencies and furnish them with relevant information and intelligence that will help in ending the senseless bloodshed, Babangida said there is the need for Nigerians to end the bloodshed.
His words: “At this period where our nation is faced with myriads of challenges of terrorism, communal clashes, kidnapping, cultism and gangsterism among other criminality, we should cooperate and support our security with relevant information and intelligence to help in tackling the problems.
“As a people, we should inculcate our cultural values, that promote good conduct, tolerance and peaceful coexistence. “We should eschew hate speeches, discrimination and other vices that trigger senseless violence and bloodshed.
We have witnessed so much bloodshed through communal clashes and conflicts that need urgent actions to stop them now.” The former military ruler also called on governments at all level, religious leaders, traditional rulers, activists and the media to serve as national vanguards in resolving some of the recent disturbing incidents affecting Nigeria’s national security.
He tasked politicians to be wary of their campaign messages, saying: “As we enter the electioneering period, I urge our political office holders as well as politicians from all political parties to be conscious of their campaign slogans and messages by ensuring that they are geared towards peaceful participation and constructive engagements of the electorate.”
While calling on Nigerians to contribute and provide supports for the welfare and upkeep of the families the fallen heroes left behind, especially their widows and children, Babangida cautioned members of the armed forces and security agencies to remain apolitical, neutral and focus on the ethics of discipline which is the hallmark of their profession.
“I wish to express my condolence to the families of members of the Armed Forces who lost their lives in their effort to keep Nigeria secured in various military operations. May their gentle souls rest in perfect peace,” he added.
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