Nigeria’s Unity ‘Settled, Non-Negotiable’ – Buhari

In a stern warning to separatist groups, President Muhammadu Buhari has said Nigeria’s unity is “settled and not negotiable”.

Speaking in a nationwide broadcast on Monday, President Buhari said the federal government would not “allow irresponsible elements” threaten Nigeria’s unity and stability.

He further urged Nigerians to live and pursue their businesses anywhere in the country, in a response to threats by some Northern groups telling Igbos living in all northern states to leave before October 1st.

He said those who make inflammatory statements against Nigeria’s unity and stability will be dealt with appropriately.

“Nigeria’s unity is settled and not negotiable,” Buhari said. “We shall not allow irresponsible elements to start trouble, and when things get bad they run away and saddle others with the responsibility of bringing back order, if necessary with their blood.

“Every Nigerian has the right to live and pursue his business anywhere in Nigeria without let or hindrance. I believe the very vast majority of Nigerians share this view.

“This is not to deny that there are legitimate concerns. Every group has a grievance. But the beauty and attraction of a federation is that it allows different groups to air their grievances and work out a mode of co-existence.

“The National Assembly and the National Council of State are the legitimate and appropriate bodies for national discourse.

The President had been in London for 103 days for medical follow-up , before returning to Nigeria on Saturday.