Civil war: Presidency warns against aggressive regionalism

The presidency, on Wednesday, reminded the nation that the tragedies of the Nigerian civil war were caused by what it called aggressive regionalism, ethnic baiting and political corruption.

In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media and Publicity), Garba Shehu, to mark the 50th year of the end of the war, it maintained that despite the consequences of the war some people were repeating the mistakes and making inflammatory rhetorics.

The statement read: “As the nation commentates 50 years of the end of the nation’s tragic civil war today, we remember the victims of the conflict and honour those on both sides that lost their lives. Their tragedy shall be neither forgotten nor repeated.

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“The war serves as a potent warning on the dangers of aggressive regionalism, ethnic baiting and political corruption. In it, we must forge common memory that can serve as a bridge to a future free from the ravages of sectarianism.

“We remember the past to draw its lessons; on how we move forward together and live in peace. Unfortunately, there are some who fail to recognise them and instead repeat its mistakes, preaching inflammatory rhetoric meant only to divide. We call on all leaders and parties to moderate their language.

“There were no victors in this war. Yet in rejecting division and embracing unity, we ensure those lives lost were not in vain.

“Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”