Leaders of the South-East geo-political zone have applauded President Muhammadu Buhari over his handling of nationwide protests demanding extensive police reforms.
They commended the president after meeting with a delegation of the federal government in Enugu yesterday. The delegation led by Ibrahim Gambari, the Chief of Staff to Mr Buhari met with governors, lawmakers, traditional, religious and youth leaders.
“We thank President Buhari for the speed and restraint with which he handled the EndSARS protest, which has engendered peace throughout the country, especially the South-east,” a communique read by Dave Umahi chairman of the South-East governor’s forum said.
“We, therefore, request the President to look into demands of various groups and youths with a view to resolving them.”
It also called for joint operation by security agencies and local vigilant groups into all forests in the zone to flush out criminals and killer herdsmen with AK47 rifles.
“But we pledge our commitment to continuous coexistence with peaceful herdsmen who have been living peacefully with us.
“We stand for an indivisible and united Nigeria, built on love, fairness, equity and justice. We believe that under this platform – NIGERIA; we are bigger and stronger,” it said.
The statement said that the states in the zone will provide money for the compensation for those affected by the EndSARS protest, help to rebuild police stations and their logistics; while engaging the youths constantly to forestall any violent development in the zone.
“We have plans to set up various empowerment programmes to gainfully engage the youths. The governors also plan to mainstream the youths in their governance to give them a sense of belonging.
“We thank leaders of other zones for protecting our people and their businesses within their areas; We pledge to do same in the entire South-East,” it added.
