Osinbajo to South East Leaders: Shun Tit-for-Tat

In a meeting involving Southeast governors and political leaders across the country, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday has urged the region not to give in to violence and hate or render ‘tit-for-tat’.

In his opening remarks at the meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Osinbajo urged them to always speak out against hate speeches and comments capable of polarizing the country along ethnic, sectional and religious lines.

The Acting President, who began consultations with leaders of thought from the North on Tuesday said “Violence and war are not going to do anyone any good. Wars today hardly end. No one who has seen the face of wars even on television who wish it for anyone.

“We should not tolerate hate speeches or divisive comments…

“Their is no doubt on the resolve of government to allow anyone get away with hate speeches and divisive words.

“Our emotion should not be allowed to run wide so as to threaten the existence of anyone anywhere in Nigeria.

“We will do everything within our power to protect the lives of every citizen anywhere and in any part of the country.’’

Present at the meeting were: Senate President Bukola Saraki, Speaker of the House of Representatives Yakubu Dogara, Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu, Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi, Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia, Gov. Willy Obiano of Anambra and Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo.

Others included Chief of staff to the president Abba Kyari, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, NSA, chief of defence staff, service chiefs, Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris and ministers.

Former Senate President Ken Namani, Senator Eyinaya Abaribe, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Catholic Awka Bishop Okoye, Igwebike Onah Catholic archbishop of Nssuka, Senator Joy Emordi, Prof. Viola Nwuleri also attended the meeting.