Aregbesola, Amaechi deplore terrorism, conflicts
October 1, 2013by Femi Makinde and Chukwudi Akasike
Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has described the problem of terrorism and other criminal activities, including bad governance, as some of the serious setbacks to the development of the country.
Aregbesola said this in a message issued in Osogbo on Monday to commemorate the 53rd Independence anniversary of Nigeria.
He said, “The country is faced with tough difficulties and mortal dangers on multiple fronts. Our efforts at nation-building are being affronted by manifold crises of under-development – bad governance, poor planning, industrial collapse, decay of basic infrastructure, socio-economic backwardness, political instability, insecurity, widespread poverty, and terrorism, among many other woes.
“These are undeniably serious setbacks to our development march; but they do not amount to any permanent incapacity for us not to move forward. Indeed, setbacks are necessary but temporary impediments along the path to progress.”
Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi called for national cohesion and true democracy as the country marks its 53rd anniversary.
Amaechi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. David Iyofor, explained that democracy could only thrive when the people lived in peace and unity with leaders showing true leadership and statesmanship in line with democratic tenets.
He said, “No democracy can grow in the face of unending conflicts and in the midst of impunity. Nigeria is one country in spite of our varying cultures, religion and ethnic nationalities; and we can only succeed as a nation if we stand united.
“As we mark this year’s Independence Day, let us all reflect on the dynamics of true democracy and work towards improving our national life.”