The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has urged Nigerians to desist from actions that could provoke one another that could lead the country to another national conflict. Abiodun gave the charge during a special service to celebrate Armed Forces Remembrance Day 2023 held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, yesterday.
The governor specifically called on Nigerians who like to beat the drum of war to desist from such actions as the general election draws near.
“Let me call on all of us, we must do everything to ensure that we avoid actions that could cause each other, actions that could lead to war or other national conflicts.
“To those who keep beating the drum of war, let us ensure that as we prepare for the 2023 general elections, we do not do anything to make things too hot,” he said.
Abiodun, while noting that the administration in the last three and a half years has lowered the political temperature in the country and allowed every political party to market its franchise, appealed to all Nigerians to participate in the upcoming general elections.
The governor, who also called on youths in the state to shun all acts of violence and thuggery, urged parents and guardians to ensure that their children and wards are not used as thugs during the election.
Abiodun stressed that his government would continue to remember the fallen heroes by extending support through the Nigerian Legion. He called on well-meaning individuals and organizations to come forward to help the bereaved families of our fallen heroes.
In a message themed, “Remembrance of our giants,” the Bishop of the United African Methodist Church, Ijemo, Abeokuta, Rt. Revd. Noah Adekanbi Olabisi, described January 15 as a date set aside to commemorate the great men and women who died defending the territorial integrity of the country.
Adekanbi, while lauding the sacrifices of the fallen heroes as one that helped make the country stronger, made a case for the bereaved families, saying the families need prayers, financial and material support from the people of the country. .
The pastor, while praying for a peaceful election that will be free from bloodshed and brutality, noted that what the country needs at this time is a leader and not a ruler.
The cleric, who acknowledged Abiodun is working hard to ensure a more prosperous country, called on the younger generation to stay away from thugs and vote wisely in the upcoming general elections.