Tiv group backs Buhari over move against secessionists

Consequently, the group has thrown it's weight behind the President Muhammadu Buhari's administration for the re-arrest of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, and the efforts being made to arrest Sunday Igboho.

The group in a statement signed by its President, Mike Msuaan, hailed the federal government's efforts especially on the use of diplomatic channels in effecting the arrest of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, a feat that has restored the confidence of Nigerians in Mr. President's fight against criminal elements and secessionists.

"We are particularly pleased to identify ourselves with the Nigerian government and her wide security networks that have made it possible to seamlessly arrest and bring back Mr. Nnamdi Kanu who had been a thorn and an embarrassment to the Federal Government via his numerous broadcasts and inflammatory comments,ÔÇØ the group added.

It further praised the commitment of the security agencies in their efforts in protecting the territorial integrity of the nation and quelling all forms of criminalities in the country.

"Nnamdi Kanu had absconded after he was granted bail and left the country. He equally flaunted all the bail conditions, a situation that was very embarrassing and demeaning to the federal government. However, the federal government assured Nigerians that justice will be done and indeed that promise has been fulfilled.

"Over the few years of fighting to evade justice, Nnamdi Kanu constantly made videos and radio broadcasts that were treasonable and highly inflammatory. This led to serious of attacks on security and other government structures and personels, a situation that could not be allowed to linger on forever,ÔÇØ the group said.

"Several terrorists and secessionists movements have sprung across the country in blatant disregard to the constitution and laid down rules.

"From those desirous of having an Islamic Caliphate in the North to the Biafran and Odudua separatists movements in the East and Western part of the country respectively. These have become a major threat to the territorial integrity of Nigeria and her continued peaceful existence. This must not be allowed to continue as there are several ways of addressing grievances in a democracy.

"No nation can fold it's arms and watch terrorists and secessionists build up an army and endanger peace and security. The arrest on Kanu and the similar other efforts being made by the federal government to restore peace and order are commendable and must be supported by all and sundry,ÔÇØ the group added.