- The former head of state recalled that he tried to prevent Nigeria's break-up by creating more states
- He applauded Governor Seriake Dickson for his work in Bayelsa
Former head of state, Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that he created Bayelsa and other states 57 years ago in order to prevent Nigeria’s break-up and save minority groups from being dominated.
Vanguard reports that the former head of state spoke in Bayelsa on Wednesday, July 12 while commissioning the newly built Bayelsa State Governor’s office.
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Gowon applauded Governor Seriake Dickson for his efforts in the state and expressed gratitude for being given a rousing welcome and a chieftaincy title.
Gowon said: “from what I have heard, you did not abandon anything that your predecessors had done. But you built and improved on them and this is really to your credit. I am sure that there will be no abandoned project.
“I was not expecting the kind of welcome I received here today. I have never been welcomed like this in all the traditional communities I have been to.”
“I was delighted to create this state 57 years ago. At that time, the political situation was very difficult.”
“There was fears of the country breaking up, fears of domination of the minority…and the question was, what were we going to do in order to remove this fear causing problems in Nigeria…?”
“Fears of being dominated by majority ethnic groups? The creation of states was to solve these fears…”
“My joy knows no bounds. I am very much at home whenever I visit this state.”
“Your Excellency, you have done exceptionally well. I have always known you for your love and commitment to Nigeria. I want to see you continue your love and commitment to Nigeria.”
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The former head of state also sent a message to youths calling for the break-up of Nigeria advising them to channel their energy into making the country better.
He also urged them to listen to their elders while also advising the elders to also carry the youths along in national development.
Meanwhile, The Eastern Consultative Assembly (ECA) slammed former president Olusegun Obasanjo for asking Nigerians to stop the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra Nnamdi Kanu to stop the current Biafra agitation.
The assembly led by Elliot Ugochukwu-Uko said the statement by the former president is not only unfortunate but dangerous to the survival of Nigeria.
In a statement signed by Elliot, the ECA said Obasanjo know better that any Nigerian that true federalism anchored is the only factor that can save Nigeria.
Watch a bestarewa.com.ng TV video below of Olusegun Obasanjo speaking about Nigeria's unity
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