Mark, in a statement released on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, said that the serial calls for a breakup of Nigeria was counter-productive, adding that there were huge consequences for a fragmented nation.
In a statement signed by his Media Assistant, Paul Mumeh, Mark cautioned the agitators to think twice, adding that “the trend today is that nations are coming together and bridging gaps of differences for mutual cooperation under a new world order of globalisation for a better society.”
He asked Nigerians to imbibe the virtues of peace and unity, while praying for the stability of Nigeria.
The statement quoted Mark as cautioning against stirring up the embers of disunity, anarchy and confusion, adding that those fond of doing so should desist and rather concentrate their efforts towards building a more stable, prosperous and united Nigeria.
He said: “We have more to gain staying together than falling apart.”
Mark also warned that the consequences of a possible second civil war in the country would be devastating and catastrophic not only for Nigeria, but for the entire continent.
While acknowledging that there are shortcomings in the system, he expressed optimism that they can be addressed amicably through all legitimate channels without resorting to the extreme.
He said: “We should focus more on the positives that make us great as a people without degenerating to the level of low minds who cling to primordial and emotional fault lines in order to survive.”
The statement also quoted him as saying: “We should have learnt bitter lessons from that war. Another war is needless. We cannot survive another. We can resolve all grievances under a round table conference in a manner of give and take and mutual respect.
“What we require as a people is an egalitarian society where Justice, equity and rule of law prevails. A nation where everyone is free to pursue his or her legitimate.