By Oghenekevwe Laba
LAGOS MAY 29TH (URHOBOTODAY)-President Goodluck Jonathan has raised the alarm over terrorists activities in Nigeria, saying the gains of the past 15 years of interupted democratic governance in the country were threatened by the presence of international terrorism on its shores.
The President who raised the alarm in a speech he delivered today at Abuja in commemoration fifteen years of Nigeria democracy disclosed that Nigeria is facing a new challenge by extremist foreign elements, collaborating with some of the country’s misguided citizens focused on an attempt to bring down the country and the democracy and freedom the people cherished and celebrated.
He reiterated that the despicable abduction of school girls from Chibok in Borno State had brought to the awareness of the entire world, the heartless brutality of these terrorists who want to instigate a descent into anarchy and balkanize our nation.
“In recent years, terrorist attacks have claimed the lives of several of our compatriots, many have been injured or maimed, whole villages and communities have been destroyed and the economy of some of our states is in jeopardy.
“ There can be no doubt that what we are witnessing in Nigeria today is a manifestation of the same warped and ferocious world view that brought down the Twin Towers in New York, killed innocent persons in Boston and led to the murder of defenceless people in the Southern Russian city of Volgograd. Terrorist activities have brought war and pains to Mali, Somalia, Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan. These agents of evil continue to brainwash and incite ignorant young men and women to attack the innocent. We cannot allow this to continue”, Jonathan who said he ordered a low-key commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day in deference to the current mood of the nation complained.
Welcoming. statements of solidarity from patriotic citizens and the global community in support of the country’s efforts to stamp out terrorism, Jonathan commended the the gallantry of Nigerian security forces despite the challenges.
“We must not forget their gallantry and successes in liberating nations and in peacekeeping, from Liberia to Sierra Leone, Congo, Sudan, Mali, Guinea-Bissau and many places in Africa and beyond. Our forces have paid the supreme price in several places at several times. Today, they face a different challenge, an unconventional war by terrorists. They are adjusting and are being equipped to tackle the new menace of terrorism. We must show confidence in their ability. I have no doubt that, with the support of Nigerians, our neighbours and the international community, we will reinforce our defence, free our girls and rid Nigeria of terrorists,” He vowed.
He disclosed that he is determined to protect the nation’s democracy, its national unity and her political stability, by waging a total war against terrorism.
Hear him, “The unity and stability of our country, and the protection of lives and property are non-negotiable. I have instructed our security forces to launch a full-scale operation to put an end to the impunity of terrorists on our soil. I have also authorized the security forces to use any means necessary under the law to ensure that this is done. I assure you that Nigeria will be safe again, and that these thugs will be driven away – it will not happen overnight, but we will spare no effort to achieve this goal.”
He appealed to Nigerians who have joined hands with Al Qaeda and international terrorists in the misguided belief that violence could possibly solve their problems have a rethinking, adding that the nation’s our doors remain open to them for dialogue and reconciliation, if they renounce terrorism and embrace peace.
“ My government, while pursuing security measures, will explore all options, including readiness to accept unconditional renunciation of violence by insurgents, and to ensure their de-radicalization, rehabilitation and re-integration into the broader society,” Jonathan promised, adding,” We must remain united to win the war against terrorism. Christians, Moslems, farmers, fishermen, herdsmen, teachers, lawyers, clergy or clerics, the rich, the poor and Nigerians from all sections of the country must work together with our security agencies and armed forces to overcome the terrorists who now threaten all that we hold dear.
“The war against terror may be difficult, but the days of peace will come again. Terror is evil; nowhere in history has evil endured forever. The menace of Boko Haram will surely come to an end. I believe that because of your prayers, your courage, hardwork, faith and sacrifice, we will ultimately prevail over the terrorists and all other evil forces. We are a strong, resilient and courageous people. We will continue to partner with the civilized world, to confront international terrorism and every other challenge that comes our way with patriotic zeal and determination.
“Yes, we have challenges but we will surely overcome. Nigeria is our country. Nigeria is blessed. We will all collectively protect, defend and develop this country for ourselves, and our children.”