We Must Denounce Hate Speeches – Osinbajo

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday urged leaders across the country to speak out against hate speeches and divisive comments.

He made the call during the opening session of a meeting with leaders of thoughts from the South East, at the old Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja.

He stressed that it is not the time to hide under any ethnic or religious platform to support comments that divide rather than unite the nation.

Noting that the meeting was very urgent and crucial because of the current hate speeches and divisive comments across the country, the acting President said the situation requires urgent attention from all concerned.

“Violence and war are not going to do anyone any good. Wars today hardly end. No one who has seen the face of wars even on television will wish it for anyone. We should not tolerate hate speeches or divisive comments,” he said.

He reiterated Federal Government’s resolve to deal with any troublemaker who threatens the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria.

The acting President added: “There is no doubt on the resolve of government not to allow anyone get away with hate speeches and divisive words. Our emotion should not be allowed to run wide so as to threaten the existence of anyone anywhere in Nigeria.

“We will do everything within our power to protect the lives of every citizen anywhere and in any part of the country.”

While thanking the leaders for their prompt response to the consultative meeting, Osinbajo said he expects fruitful and frank deliberations at the meeting.

Those at the meeting were – Senate President, Bukola Saraki; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, some state governors –  Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), David Umahi (Ebonyi), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Willie Obiano (Anambra), and Rochas Okorocha (Imo).

Others are – the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari; Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu; National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno and other top government officials.

Former Senate President, Ken Namani; Senator Eyinaya Abaribe, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Senator Joy Emodi, Prof. Viola Nwuleri.