Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State has called on Nigerians to remain united, live peacefully and shun all tendencies capable of plunging the nation into chaos and anarchy.
Ganduje said this in a statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Malam Muhammad Garba, to mark the 57th Independence anniversary of Nigeria on Sunday in Kano.
He also cautioned against misguided hate speeches and violent agitations propelled by some few disgruntled elements for selfish reasons that might result in unnecessary carnage.
“As the nation celebrates its 57th Independence Anniversary, I want to remind Nigerians of the immense sacrifices of our forefathers, notably late Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.
Others are Dr Nnamdi Azikwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Chief Obafemi Awolowo, for the independence of our great country from the yoke of colonialism.
“They sacrificed their personal comfort, energy, time and wealth for the country to be independent, united and indivisible entity” he said.
“And, therefore, urged that “we should not allow these sacrifices to be in vain.’’
He, therefore, urged Nigerians to embrace dialogue and avail themselves with constitutional avenues to present their grievances with decorum and civility for amicable resolution.
He appealed to all to hold the unity and oneness of Nigeria sacrosanct in the interest of the present and future generations.
Also, Gov. Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State called on Nigerians to reflect on the labours of past heroes as the country marks another independence anniversary.
He further advised Nigerians to imbibe virtues that would promote the unity of the country at all times.
He urged citizens to continue to offer selfless service for the unity of the country and for the future of the next generation.
Al-Makura tasked Nigerians to use the day to reflect on the struggle of the country’s founding fathers with the view to fulfilling her destiny.
He said the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari was committed to the indivisibility of Nigeria and ensure that every citizen had access to the dividends of democracy.
Al-Makura expressed optimism that the President Buhari’s administration would succeed in its quest to reduce poverty, fight corruption, change the economic fortune of the country and stem the tide of insecurity.
He also urged leaders to continue to unite the people as part of self sacrifice to the country and humanity.
Similarly, Gov. Abubakar Bello of Niger also called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of patriotism and peaceful co-existence for a prosperous country.
He also ordered the release of seven prisoners to mark this year’s Independence Day celebration.
He made the announcement in his broadcast message to mark the event in Minna.
Bello directed the state ministry of justice to work with Nigerian Prisons Service to ensure that the freed prisoners were reunited with their families and properly reintegrated into the society.
He called on Nigerians to reflect on the gains and lessons learnt from the founding fathers in order to move the country forward.
“We need to take it our commitment beyond our hero’s past to reflect on the gains and lessons learnt over the years to take charge and face the challenges of our time.
“The tributes we pay to our fallen and living heroes must not end alone on our lips as we sing the National anthem.
“We must be evident in our character of selflessness and sense of responsibility that characterised the lives of our heroes,” he said.
He noted that for the nation to actualise its corporate vision there was need for all citizens to appreciate the differences and diversity inherent in Nigeria’s system.
According to him, the anniversary calls for new resolutions and new visions for every citizens of this great nation to rededicate us towards pursuing its unity and development.
“We should understand the need to respect our differences and appreciate our diversities.
“We are one people under God, North or South, we are all Nigerians that have one destiny netted together in project Nigeria,” he added.
He emphasised the need for all Nigerians to coexist without acrimony, rancour and hostility, rather with compassion and mutual respect for one another.
The governor gave assurance of the present administration’s commitment to remain focus in delivering people’s oriented projects with direct positive impact on the lives of the masses.
He said that the ongoing transformations in the state would strengthen the foundations of economy and social life as well as create jobs for the people of the state.
