President Bola Tinubu has declared that criminals threatening the sovereignty of Nigeria would pay “a heavy price”.

Tinubu made the declaration at a meeting with leaders of the Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

The president said: “I am irrevocably committed to the unity of Nigeria and constitutional democracy. Constitutional democracy is reflected greatly here since we assumed office. What we face now is the challenge of terrorism.

“Security of life and property is very necessary for development. I can tell you we are achieving success. We have degraded terrorism to a level that they cannot threaten the sovereignty of Nigeria any longer.

“Banditry and kidnapping will be defeated. And there is no payment of ransom whatsoever. We are taking the battle to them. We are getting results more rapidly than before. We are working hard on intelligence gathering.

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“Those who think they can threaten the sovereignty of Nigeria will have themselves to blame. They have a price to pay. And we are not going to relent.”

Tinubu, therefore, thanked the delegation for their prayers and support, assuring them that he would not relent in his resolve to advance Nigeria.

“God bless Nigeria. God bless our unity; our diversity must bring prosperity for all for the sake of Nigeria,” he added.

Speaking, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Olu Falae, commended Tinubu for his courageous decisions and the rehabilitation of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos State, as well as other critical ongoing projects.

Falale urged the president not to relent in ensuring fairness and equity for all Nigerians while noting the importance of a constitutional amendment to devolve more powers to the states.

He said: “We are delighted about what you are doing for our country, and we assure you of our continued support. We thank you for your visit to Akure in February 2024 and we believe it is right and proper to reciprocate your kind gesture. We appreciate this relationship and we need to make it work in the interest of Nigeria.

“We have no doubt that your tenure will mark a turning point in the history of our country. Under your leadership, Nigeria will be repositioned.”

The delegation was led by the leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti; and Falae, among others.

The Star