North Shouldn't Tear Nigeria Apart Says Ex- Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, rtd, has asked the North not to agitate for power to return to the north so as not to throw the country into turmoil.

Nov 29, 2024 - 06:23
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North Shouldn't Tear Nigeria Apart Says Ex- Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, rtd, has asked the North not to agitate for power to return to the north so as not to throw the country into turmoil.

Gowon said that any attempt to return power to the north in 2027, could tear the country apart and urged northern elites to champion causes that serve the collective interest of Nigeria rather than narrow regional interests. 
He spoke in Abuja on Wednesday while hosting a delegation from the Senator Ibrahim Shekarau-led League of Northern Democrats, LND, at the Yakubu Gowon Centre.
The LND was formed to mobilise northerners for the 2027 presidential polls apparently to snatch power from the south, following agitations for power to return to the North over alleged marginalisation and after the eight- years administration of Alhaji Mohammadu Buhari.
Former presidential spokesman, Doyin Okupe had recently said in an interview with THE WHISTLER that the unwritten agreement among governing elites was that “after eight years, power must return to another region,” pointing out that, “Tinubu or the south must have another four years before power returns to the north.”
His words, “The north must ensure that its actions are in the best interest of Nigeria.
“My support for the creation of states was driven by the need to address fears of domination and to promote unity among all regions of the country.
“At that time, the fear of disintegration was palpable across all regions. My decision to advocate for state creation was to mitigate these fears and ensure a balanced federation...
“My allegiance has always been to Nigeria. I believe in putting the country first and avoiding the distractions of partisan politics. Differences in opinion should never hinder us from working together for the nation’s good.
“The activities of groups such as the Lukurawa from Mali have only compounded our problems. However, I am encouraged by your efforts to address these issues and promote unity in the north and across Nigeria.
“Whatever you do, prioritize the collective good of Nigeria. Collaboration among states is essential, but it should never undermine the nation’s unity. Your efforts give me hope for Nigeria’s future, and I remain at your service.”
Gowon further noted the county's diversity as a strength, asking the citizens to prioritize unity and collective development, just as he expressed concern over the current challenges facing northern Nigeria, including insecurity, disunity, abject poverty and drug addiction.
Earlier, the Chairman of the LND, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, har praised Ciwon, describing him as a symbol of unity and resilience, adding that his leadership of Nigeria during the country's most challenging periods as well as his continued commitment to the nation was good for emulation.
According to Shekarau, the LND was established to address critical challenges facing the north and reposition it as a leader in political, economic, and cultural spheres within Nigeria.
“LND is not a political party but a platform for patriots to find collaborative solutions to the issues of disunity, poverty, insecurity, and societal value erosion,” he added.

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