by Hauwa Gambo

The Nigerian Governors Forum has officially rejected the declaration of a state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and other violence-prone states in Northern Nigeria.

This was stated by the chairman of the forum, Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers, today. It follows reports that President Goodluck Jonathan might declare emergency in 5 such states.

“These requests are being made by people who do not wish our country well and who are bent on plunging the country into a deeper crisis,” the statement said.

[READ: We need a state of emergency]

Update:

“We urge the Federal Government to continue to support affected states in the bid to check violence. The Federal Government should remain focused and continue to provide leadership until every part of Nigeria is rid of violence and insurgency,” the statement said.

“We also call on the Federal Government to ignore the ongoing agitation for a state of emergency in some parts of the country. These requests are being made by people who do not wish our country well and who are bent on plunging the country into a deeper crisis.

“The Federal Government should not allow itself to be distracted from our collective goal of curbing the insurgency in some parts of our country once and for all.

“We have no other country to call home and it is important that we understand the danger and futility of destroying our land in the pursuit of a selfish agenda.”

“We are impressed by the magnanimity of the Federal Government, which has demonstrated an uncommon love for the country by setting up a Committee to explore the possibilities of granting amnesty to the members of the Boko Haram sect.

“It is also a good step that government has agreed to cooperate fully with the National Human Rights Commission in the investigation of the killings in Baga.
We also commend our security agencies for the selfless sacrifice they are making in the interest of us all to restore calm to all parts of our country.”