‘My Wife Is From South East, Sons Married From Other Regions’ – Gov Akeredolu Gives Reason For Not Supporting Secession
Ondo state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, says he cannot be in support of Nigeria’s secession because he is married to a woman from the South Eastern part of the country.
Akeredolu’s wife, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the First Lady of the state, is from Imo state.
He insisted that a national dialogue is the way to go in ensuring a lasting solution to the myriads of constitutional problems facing the country.
Akeredolu gave the charge on Tuesday in Akure as Senate commenced zonal hearings on the review of the 1999 Constitution.
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The Governor said the people were desirous of a national dialogue to chart a new course for the nation, saying it was a crucial step for the continued existence of the country.
He was hosting members of the review committee led by the Deputy Senate majority leader and senator representing Ondo North Senatorial District, Ajayi Borrofice.
Other members of the committee who were present were Biodun Olujimi, Nicholas Tofowomo, Olubunmi Adetumbi and Opeyemi Bamidele.
The committee holds a public hearing on the review of 1999 constitution at the International Centre for Culture and Event (DOME), Akure on Wednesday.
Akeredolu in his welcome address to the lawmakers, said people are losing confidence in the entity called Nigeria because a number of issues have been allowed to linger for too long.
He, therefore, urged the Senators to listen to public complaints as the public hearing begins today.
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Akeredolu expressed;
I kept making a case anytime I have the opportunity. My circumstance cannot make me believe in secession.
My wife is from the SouthEast. My Sons married from other regions outside (the) Southwest. But strong points have been made. Everybody wants to see fairness, federalism. Those are the areas. Is this how to run a federal government? Is it an inclusive one? How do we have fair representation? People are worried.
This constitution review, your efforts, I pray it should be accepted. Our people believe that there must be dialogue. People are saying we want national dialogue. How we convoke it, I don’t know. I believe those are issues we must look at.
Akeredolu, who said the people are already on the edge, added that the issues of farmers, herders clash could not be wished away in the course of the public hearing.
He stated;
It is not easy to wish herders/farmers clash away. Our people are on the edge. What are we saying about (the) police? Are we stressing multi-level policing? Are we talking about state police? I believe opportunities are there for us in this country.
