Councillors ask military to stay off politics

Nigerian politicians should not allow their disagreement over the absence of President Umaru Yar’Adua to destroy the country’s democratic growth, local government councillors have said.

The council lawmakers said Nigerians are not ready for military intervention in the leadership of the country again, after enjoying 10 years of uninterrupted democracy.

The National President of Federation of Local Government Councillors of Nigeria (FLGCN), Victor Edim, said in Calabar at the weekend that the ongoing leadership crisis in the country has not degenerated to a level where the military will come in to intervene.

Mr. Edim said his association, made up of legislators who function at the grassroots level, gives voice to the fears and aspirations of the ordinary Nigerian.

“President Umaru Yar’Adua’s failing health and the recent Jos sectarian crisis were not convincing alibi for the military to capture power again,” Mr. Edim declared.

Temple of justice

He acknowledged that the leadership crisis was worrisome and capable of affecting public peace, but pointed out that politicians are capable of resolving the crisis among themselves.

“As a worshipper in the temple of justice, constitutional means should be applied, rather than undue agitation, since the unity of the country is more paramount than the health of Yar’Adua,” he said.

Mr. Edim, who is a councillor in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, described as “enemies of progress” those calling for military intervention as well as those championing the cause for the disintegration of the country because of religious riot in some parts of the country.

“The corporate existence and peace of the African continent will be compromised by a break-up of our country, especially as Nigeria remains the beacon of hope for Africa,” he said.