Nigeria Ambassador to Benin Republic appeals for unity among Nigerians
By Olubunmi Osoteku, Ibadan
Nigeria Ambassador to Benin Republic and former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (Rtd), has appealed to Nigerians to remain united, irrespective of their political and ethnic leaning.
Buratai made the appeal after his installation as the Jagunmolu of Saki Kingdom in Oyo State, by the traditional ruler, the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi.
Also at the event, the former Army Chief of Policy and Plans, Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun (Rtd), was also installed as the Akinrogun of Saki kingdom by the traditional ruler.
Addressing the gathering on behalf of the two title holders, shortly after he was installed as the Jagunmolu of Saki kingdom, the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (Rtd), said Nigerians should continue to see themselves as one if the country must move forward.
Buratai pointed out that the conferment of the chieftancy titles on them by Saki Kingdom is a sign that Nigeria has recognised their contributions and services to the country and a great honour to them, their families, their communities, the Nigerian Army which they served and retired from honourably and to all peace-loving Nigerians that are fighting for the unity and peaceful coexistence of the nation.
While commending the Okere of Saki kingdom, Oba Khalid Olabisi and his chiefs for the honour, Buratai called on the people to remain focused and continue to work towards the success of the 2023 general elections.
Humility in service
On his part, the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi, noted that the service of the two retired Army generals to humanity, the critical roles played while in service for the unity and progress of the nation and their contributions to the development of the kingdom, called for their celebrations.
The royal father, who extolled the virtues of the two retired generals and described them as detribalised and illustrious, enjoined the youths in the kingdom and Nigeria at large to eschew all forms of violence, focus on making positive impacts and emulate the good traits and legacies of the generals.
He also charged the retired generals to continue with the good work they are known for, despite their exit from service.
The ceremony, which was held at the palace of the Okere of Saki, was graced by royal fathers from within and outside Saki Kingdom, serving and retired military officers and friends of the new title holders.
Emmanuel Ukoh