Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday said Nigeria will continue to exist while stressing that the cost for the country to break up is too costly.
“…Nigeria will continue to exist because the cost for Nigeria not to continue to exist is much more than the cost for us to make Nigeria to continue to exist.
He made the remarks at the Book Launch and 85th Birthday of Eminence Prelate Sunday Mbang of the Methodist Church Nigeria, held at the Admiralty Centre, Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos State.
Obasanjo, who was the Convener of the programme in honour of Mbang, described the former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria as a lover of Nigeria.
The book, a memoir, chronicling the journey of the octogenarian, was titled, ‘My Life and Times’.
He said the cost of staying together as a nation is cheaper than the cost of dividing Nigeria.
The former head of state made the statement at a time when secessionist agitations, fueled by perceived injustice and worsening security situation, have increased across the country especially in Southern Nigeria.
Speaking at the occasion, the ex-President assured the respected Christian leader that the enemies of Nigeria won’t win.
Obasanjo said, “We are here to honour somebody we should honour, and learn from him (Mbang), to show that we genuinely love and appreciate him for the service he has rendered to the Christian community in this country and world over. And to assure him that whatever happens, we will continue to work for unity, peace, security and progress of this country.
“I know that these are things that are dear to his heart. We want to assure you that Nigeria will continue to exist because the cost for Nigeria not to continue to exist is much more than the cost for us to make Nigeria to continue to exist.
“There are many people –high and low – who can be described as enemies of Nigeria but they will not win over those who are friends of Nigeria.”
Also at the event include the Akwa Ibom State Governor and Chairman of the occasion, Udom Emmanuel, as well as many dignitaries from all walks of life.
