Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has warned that security agencies will be sent to checkmate those agitating for creation of Oodua ‘nation’ out of South-West Nigeria.
Akeredolu, who is also the Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, spoke at the Launching of Emblem Appeal to flag-off the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebrations, which was held at the State Internal Revenue Service Hall, Akure, the state capital.
Akeredolu said many lives have been laid down for the unity of the country, vowing that states in the Southwest will not allow any agitation that will scuttle the sacrifices of the Nation’s heroes.
The Governor, who stressed that the country is too important to him and his administration, said no sit-at-home order will be tolerated in any state in the South-West.
Akeredolu particularly saluted the selfless and sacrificial services of the fallen heroes who had laid down their lives in wars and peacekeeping missions around the world, and those currently serving, day and night, to guarantee the peace and unity of the country.
Akeredolu also expressed his belief that special recognition and appreciation must be accorded the gallant military men who had been involved in the war against Boko Haram, other forms of terrorists’ activities, banditry and insurgencies in the Northeast, Northwest and other parts of the country and who had in the process, paid the supreme sacrifice.
He reassured that his administration will continue to work with governmental, Non-Governmental Organisations, officers and men of the Armed Forces and the Legion to ensure an improved welfare for Legionnaires, widows and dependants of departed ones in the State.
The Governor equally used the opportunity to appreciate the Nigerian Legion for their steadfastness, perseverance and exemplary conducts as they continue to make meaningful contributions to the growth and development of the country, particularly in the area of security.
Akeredolu disclosed that the current daring posture of the enemies of the country, which has cost the nation the lives of many of our gallant soldiers, is highly condemnable, stressing that the sustained effort of the officers and men has greatly checkmated the threat by the unscrupulous elements.
Akeredolu enjoined all Local Government Councils to celebrate the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day by purchasing and selling the emblems and equally donate generously to the cause.
He also urged government functionaries, corporate organisations, good spirited individuals and Non-Governmental Organisations, (NGOs), to donate generously towards the noble cause and purchase the remembrance emblem.
The event also had in attendance the Acting Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; members of the State Executive Council led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; heads of security agencies; representative of the Deji of Akure, legions and widows of the fallen heroes, among others.
