By Divine Sam
Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Retd), has urged northern leaders to focus on Nigeria’s collective interest rather than regional divisions, warning that regional agitations could risk tearing the country apart. Speaking during a meeting with the Senator Ibrahim Shekarau-led League of Northern Democrats (LND) at the Yakubu Gowon Centre in Abuja, Gowon emphasized the importance of unity across Nigeria’s regions. This comes amidst growing calls in the North for power to return to the region after President Bola Tinubu’s election.
Gowon, reflecting on his own time as leader during Nigeria’s tumultuous years, recalled the difficulties of preserving national unity amid secession threats and regional tensions. He expressed concern over the current challenges in the North, including insecurity, disunity, poverty, and drug addiction. He commended the LND’s efforts to address these issues and promote unity in the region.
The former leader also supported the idea that power should remain in the South for the next four years before returning to the North, aligning with former presidential spokesperson Doyin Okupe’s recent statement. Gowon encouraged the LND to prioritize initiatives that would foster national unity and development, reaffirming his commitment to the country’s progress. Senator Shekarau, for his part, praised Gowon as a symbol of resilience and unity during Nigeria’s most difficult periods.
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