From Demola Atobaba, Ado-Ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has called on Nigerians to emulate the sacrificial and selfless efforts of the men of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies in sustaining the peace and unity of the country.
He said Nigeria will continue to appreciate the sacrifices of officers and men who laid down their lives to ensure that their country men enjoy peace.
The Governor represented by his Deputy, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi made the statement at the parade command and laying of wreaths marking the end of the activities of 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance day Celebrations at Fajuyi Park, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.
A statement by the Special Assistant to the Deputy Governor, Odunayo Ogunmola, revealed that the colourful parade was marked with special salute to the unknown soldier and 21-gun salute to the fallen heroes.
According to him, the fallen heroes had demonstrated their love and honour for the country by laying their lives down for the Nation.
The Governor said, “We want every Nigerians to love and honour our country. To do what these great men had done. They laid their lives for us to live together in peace and unity.”
Fayemi who stressed, the need for all citizens to join forces with them (security agencies) in promoting peace and unity in the Country, commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in the country for their patriotism.
Apart from the governor, others who laid wreaths at cenotaph of the unknown soldier are Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe; Brigade Commander, 32 Artillery Regiment, Akure, Brig.-Gen. James Ataguba represented by Col. I.I. Akpan; Commissioner of Police, Amba Asuquo; Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Solomon Iyamu and Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps, Ismaila Kugu.
Fayemi said: “We thank all our men that are in the affairs of peace in this country, we want them to continue to maintain peace.
“It is only in the pursuit of peace that we can do all that we promised to do without which it is impossible.”
“We need to support the Federal Government, the state government and government at the Local level in their a bid to ensure the continuous sustenance of peace in the country.”
Prayers were offered for the families of the fallen heroes, victory over insurgency and success in the forth coming general elections.