Obi calls for quick evacuation of Nigerians in Sudan
Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the March 25 presidential election, Mr Peter Obi, Monday, called for a quick evacuation of Nigerians living in Sudan.
A vicious power struggle between the regular army and a powerful paramilitary force has led to violence across Sudan for more than a week leaving Nigerians and other foreigners in the country at high risk.
Speaking to journalists when he visited Central Mosque, Awka to celebrate Sallah holiday with Muslim community in the capital city on Monday, Obi urged the Federal government to join other countries in evacuating her nationals resident in the troubled country as fierce fighting continues to rage in Khartoum.
He said, “other countries are evacuating their nationals. There is no reason why we should not do same to our brothers. Those Nigerians there are Nigerians we have found to protect. Any Nigerian anywhere in the world is under the protection of the federal government and if they have difficulty, we have to intervene.”
Obi also called on fortunate Nigerians to also support the government in anywhere possible to ensure that Nigerians in the troubled country are returned safely.
Earlier, while addressing the Muslim community at the mosque, Obi expressed his appreciation for the invitation and explained that his visit was to celebrate the Eid el Fitr with them as he has always done. He also promised to continue to support the Muslims in the State and any part of the country, in any way he could.
Reiterating the need for Nigerians to love and appreciate one another, Obi stated that every Nigerian should be free to live and thrive in any part of the country without intimidation or harrassment.
“I am a Nigerian who believes in Nigeria. My ADC when I was Governor, Idris, is a Northerner from Kano State, and he is a good man. I have never discriminated against anyone based on religion or tribe, and I will never do that. I want the whole nation to hold me accountable on this. I will never discriminate against anybody. I will continue to support you especially in areas of education, health and your worship.
“Please disregard anyone who tells you that I do not like the Northerners. I love every Nigerian. We are all children of Almighty God. Let us not allow religion to divide us. We are committed for a better Nigeria. Nigeria is one and united. What the children want is good education and good job,” Obi said.
Obi during the visit, donated varying food items to the Muslim community, having pledged to contribute his quota to the completion of the mosque to the standard it should be.
Reacting, the Muslims at the mosque eulogized Obi for what they described as his unwavering support to the Community from his days as the Governor of Anambra State till now.
They thanked Obi for the gift items donated to the Muslims and reassured him of their support towards actualizing a peaceful one Nigeria.
