The Sokoto State governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has warned Nigerians against making inflammatory comments, saying such were bad for unity and collective progress.
“What we need now is to team up as a people to find lasting solutions to the myriad of challenges confronting us,” he added.
Reacting to the ultimatum given to the Igbo to leave the North by some youths in Kaduna, Tambuwal said, “all Nigerians are free to live in any part of the country without fear of molestation.”
The governor spoke Friday night when he hosted members of the resident communities for iftar.
“I align myself fully with the position of the Northern Governors Forum as enunciated by our chairman, Governor Kashim Shattima of Borno State.
“We have enjoyed a robust relationship with all members of the resident communities and you have no reason to fear. Sokoto is your home and it will remain that way.
“So, as long as you remain in the North, do not feel threatened by anyone,” he said.
Tambuwal, who described Nigeria as a blessed country, urged citizens to continue to develop their strengths in order to provide the needed leadership for Africa and the black race.
Representative of the Igbo community in Sokoto, Mr. Steven Okoro, said, “we have never felt threatened in Sokoto.”
He added: “We have been here for many years and our relationship with all groups of people here is based on mutual trust and respect for one another.”
Okoro applauded the state government for creating an enabling environment for all to live and work. The leader of the Yoruba community in Sokoto, Alhaji Abdulfatah Coker, also expressed appreciation to the governor for his efforts towards promotion of peace and unity among Nigerians.
On his part, Chairman, Association of Resident Communities, Muhammad Ibrahim, lauded Governor Tambuwal, for what he called his open door policy which he said brought him closer to the people.
The chairman pledged their continued support for constituted authorities to deliver on their mandates.