Buhari: We won’t allow terrorists, extremists divide Nigeria

…says efforts ongoing to secure release of Leah Sharibu, others

In a message of hope to mark the second anniversary of the abduction of 110 girls from Government Girls Science and Technical College, Dapchi in Yobe State, Buhari urged Nigerians not to be discouraged as all those in captivity would be freed in no distant time.

According to him, his administration will not allow terrorists to divide Nigeria along religious and ethnic lines as both Christians and Muslims were all children of Abraham.

“Two years ago, 110 innocent children from the town of Dapchi were taken, against their will, by the terrorists of Boko Haram. One hundred and seven survived the ordeal. Today all but one – Leah Sharibu – are returned to their families.

“Now aged 16, Leah remains in the hands of the terrorists – they say because she refuses to renounce her Christian faith.

“We say, as the government for and of all Nigerians, that no person has the right to force another to change their faith against their will and that all life is sacred.

“This government continues and seeks to secure the release of all children and captives of terrorists – and we do so regardless of their creed or the name of their creator.

“As we redouble our efforts for Leah’s return, we can never allow the terrorists to divide us – Christian against Muslim, Muslim against Christian. We are all Sons of Abraham. And all Nigerians have the same worth and rights before the law, and before God,” the President said.

In a related development, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, yesterday said President Buhari’s vision of a unified, harmonious and purpose-driven country will be consistently followed and urged Nigerians to show more understanding as the government tackles its myriad of challenges.

Adesina, who received a delegation from Unity, Honour and Glory Initiative (UHG) in his office at the Presidential Villa, said the “nation needs more understanding and cohesion to tackle the challenges before us, and move forward.”

The Unity, Honour and Glory Initiative is a group of concerned Nigerians who believe citizens should reflect on the founding philosophy of unity, honour and glory, as captured in the National Pledge, and start working collectively to own and build the country, regardless of differences.

Adesina charged Nigerians to support the policies of the government, adding that President Buhari would continue to make sacrifices that will engender unity and cohesion in the country.

In his remarks, the leader of the delegation, Dr. Felix Oisamoje, said the pressure on Nigeria is a process of growth that will eventually turn the country into the envy of other nations, admonishing all Nigerians to remain focused, dedicated and committed to unifying the country.