The President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has advised Nigerian leaders not to ignore concerns by some parts of the country over their alleged marginalisation.Lawan disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday at a Public Presentation of a book titled: ‘ Foundation of Nigeria’s Unity’ authored by Prof. Sandy Onor, representative of Cross Rivers Central Senatorial District.He warned that not doing so would decimate their patriotism and erect walls of division among the country’s regions, as well as further inflame calls for secession.
He said it behooved on leaders to lead in such a manner that the institutions and the citizens would feel their stewardship.
Lawan said that the unity of the country was a collective responsibility, hence must be created and sustained by all.
” Our founding fathers know they were not geographically separated but have differences in other areas, yet they decided to come together.
” They tried so hard to ensure unity in diversity. The challenge is not ours as they had done their best but now it is the challenge of leaders of Nigeria.
” When leaders decide to lead very well, religion, ethnicity, geographical location will not matter but what will matter is unity, security and this is doable.
” This book is telling us that we have to go back and discover where we missed the road and retrace our steps.
” With all the challenges we have, there are still people trying so hard to create and sustain the unity of this country and we must all work together to make Nigeria a united country,” he said.
He commended the author saying that the book wouldn’t have come at a better time than now when the country is moving towards another general elections.Former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, also called for the establishment of a National Integration Commission to strengthen the unity of the country.Agabi, who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) said, “We are one people, God gave dominion to man which is what we have as a country.Nigeria is not an artificial nation. We are praying for good leaders but let us not despair as we will get there.” We are one people and this must begin by respecting our constitution. Though, the constitution may not be the best but it can be reviewed.” We need a national integration commission for us to integrate the country and live in unity as a people,” he said.