The newly inaugurated president of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has jettisoned insinuations that the country was on the brink of secession.
Tinubu made this assertion in his inaugural speech during his swearing-in on Monday, May 29 at the Eagles Square in Abuja.
“For many years, Nigeria ’s critics have trafficked the rumour that our nation will break apart, even perish.
The new president admitted the fact despite the country being on the brink of precipice at different times has been still managed to uphold its peaceful coexistence.
“Yet here we are. We have stumbled at times, but our resilience and diversity have kept us going.
He, thereby, expressed confidence that the country, despite its ethnic and religious diversity would continue to live together as a united entity.
“Our burdens may make us bend at times, but they shall never break us.
“As citizens, we declare as one unified people devoted to one unified national cause, that as long as this world exists, NIGERIA SHALL EXIST.”
Tinubu gave assurance that his administration would run on the principle ethnic or political persecution, thereby charging various ethnic groups in the country to look beyond tribal interest and embrace national interest.
“The South must not only seek good for itself but must understand that its interests are served when good comes to the North. The North must see the South likewise.
“Whether from the winding creeks of the Niger Delta, the vastness of the northern savannah, the boardrooms of Lagos, the bustling capital of Abuja, or the busy markets of Onitsha, you are all my people. As your president, I shall serve with prejudice toward none but compassion and amity towards all.
“Today, let us recommit our very selves to placing Nigeria in our hearts as the indispensable home for each and every one of us regardless of creed, ethnicity, or place of birth.
“My supporters, I thank you. To those who voted otherwise, I extend my hand across the political divide. I ask you to grasp it in national affinity and brotherhood. For me, political coloration has faded away. All I see are Nigerians.”
