Jonathan urges Nigerians to condemn those who call for disunity

...President assures that Nigeria will not disintegrate.

President Goodluck Jonathan this evening called on Nigerians to rise up and condemn politicians, religious and community leaders who, instead of seeking ways to unite the country, are rather making statements and actually working towards Nigeria’s destruction.

Jonathan who spoke at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Inter-denominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre Abuja said Nigeria will be 100 years in 2014, and wondered why some people would be predicting the dissolution of a ‘100 years old marriage.’

“We have come a long way. We will continue to endure those inconveniences experienced in marriages without a thought for disintegration,” the President said.

He called on Nigerian to preach peace and work continued peaceful co-existence, assuring all that the nation will not break up.

The President used the occasion to thank members of the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies for their sacrifices and efforts to bring peace in spite of the numerous challenges facing the country. He said most people are not aware of what the security agencies and personnel are going through in the fight against terrorism and other violent crimes in the country.

“But those of us who receive security reports know that they are trying. They are working for the nation and we thank them,” the President said.

Among those who attended the church service for the repose of the souls of those who died while fighting to preserve the unity and integrity of Nigeria are the wife of the President Patience Jonathan, Senate President David Mark and his Deputy Ike Ekweremadu who was there with his wife, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Emeka Ihedioha.

Other are the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Anyim Pius Anyim along with Minister of Finance Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and other Minister; Service Chiefs, law makers, former governors and members of the diplomatic corps.

Arch Bishop John Onaikan, Bishop Okoh and several other members of the clergy attended the church service.

-----BONAVENTURE MELAH/DAILY TIMES