Former governors under the aegis of the Former Governors Forum (FGF), Monday offered to engage the federal and state governments on how to proffer solutions to the country’s worsening security challenges.
The ex-governors also expressed concern over the spate of insecurity in the country and commiserated with the families of victims of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.
The forum in a statement issued by its executive secretary, Professor Tunde Esan, called on Nigerians not to lose hope in the country because of insecurity.
“The past few months continue to witness manifestations of the grave danger that confronts our nation: erosion of peace and unity, and its attendant effect on the prosperity of Nigerians.
“From Maiduguri to Owerri, the desire of the black race is mired in an avoidable plethora of errors that threatens its foundation. Where did we get it wrong? This is just one of the questions that beg for answer, It is time to put a brake on this forlorn journey.
“More worrisome is the rise of non- state actors fuelling ethnocentric movements and groups. They must not be allowed to thrive. We must not give up. The position of Nigeria as the motivating model for other blacks, both in Africa and outside must be preserved.
“This can only be done when the government is alive to its responsibilities. Those who swore with the constitution, to uphold the territorial integrity of our nation must wake up.
“The forum stands on the principle of what affects one affects all, therefore the forum seeks inter-regional and inter-state cooperation to forge common grounds in fighting insecurity that envelopes our nation.
“The leaders of the forum will equally be meeting key stakeholders both at the state and federal levels to join hands in proffering solutions. We cannot afford to fail as a nation and we will not,’’ the statement read in part.
