Urges End To ViolencePRESIDENT of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has assured that the country will remain united despite the challenges of nationhood, including threat to security.Mark, according to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Paul Mumeh, in a goodwill message to the nation at her 51st independence anniversary, urged Nigerians not to despair because there will be light at the end of the tunnel.He listed measures being adopted by government to address the security challenges to include massive recruitment and regular training of security operatives, adequate appropriation to security agencies, enlightenment and community participation in surveillance.Mark admitted the challenges of insecurity facing the nation and submitted that it is an unfortunate phase in the country 'which we must collectively rise to surmount.'He added; 'We had the unfortunate experience of over 30 month- old fratricidal civil war, fought with much hate and bitterness but by sheer providence, we came out of it and picked our pieces.'It is a sad commentary we hate to remember. But this fresh security challenge largely fuelled by aggrieved youths and some extremists is one trouble too many.'We can only appeal to the conscience of the aggrieved to sheathe their swords, embrace dialogue so that we can all find a common solution to our common problem rather than resort to violence. Destruction of lives and property or venting anger on your fellow citizen or foreigner can only aggravate the situation and further distance us from the solution.'Whatever the anger or misgivings, dialogue and resort to defined channels of communication remain the best option'.He, however, noted that majority of Nigerians abhor violence but stressed that, 'we must do more to reignite the African spirit of being our brothers' keeper.'The President of the Senate noted that Nigeria is blessed with men and women of uncommon potentials coupled with abundant mineral resources. 'We all may not be good artists, doctors, lawyers, engineers or great writers but we can collaborate and harness our potentials for the good of all'', he said stressing; 'all we need do as a people is to develop where we have comparative advantage over others so that we can build an egalitarian society, a prosperous nation, where no one or group would feel cheated or marginalized.'He stressed that the Senate, and indeed, the National Assembly would continue to enact appropriate legislations to enhance peace, progress and development in all ramifications, maintaining 'we shall continue to stand on a solid foundation of truth, honesty and fairness in the discharge of our duties'.He further assured that the National Assembly would not take it lightly with any Ministry, Department and Agency [MDA] that failed to comply with appropriation acts adding, 'We can no longer accept a situation where we pass annual budgets that fall short of expected standard of implementation.'Senator Mark therefore called on Nigerians to show understanding and cooperate with leaders and avoid cynicism and unwarranted attack which will not advance our course.
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