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Families of fallen heroes deserve empathy, solidarity, says Oyebanji

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1 year ago

December 19, 2023

Funmilayo Okunade

Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, has charged all Nigerians to express sympathies for those who died or suffered disabilities at the war fronts while defending the territorial integrity of the Nigerian nation.

Oyebanji, spoke on Tuesday, during an emblem launch and appeal fund in commemoration of the 2024 Armed Remembrance Day in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

The governor, represented by the deputy governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, described the launching as a veritable opportunity to acknowledge the roles, contributions, and selfless services of the country’s fallen heroes and the living veterans of the Armed Forces.

He said that the best honour Nigerians can accord them is supporting their distressed families to overcome those harrowing challenges and sufferings caused by the deaths of their loved ones

He expressed sympathies for those who died at the war fronts or suffered any form of disability while working assiduously to stabilise the nation, insisting that the country must exhibit huge appreciation to them.

“As people, we cannot overcelebrate our armed forces personnel, living or fallen, serving or retired, because of their contributions to national unity and security.

“Some of these Patriots returned from wars with injuries and medical challenges, thereby leaving their families to face hardship and depression and, sometimes, live in abject poverty.

“As I speak, I am sure of the fact that thousands of military personnel are stationed across the country and beyond, preserving and protecting peace in the name of Nigeria. The bravery and vigilance of these officers must never be forgotten.

“Therefore, our gathering here is not only to celebrate the fallen heroes but also to raise funds to assist the immediate families of the war veterans.

“As good citizens of this country, our concern and aspiration should be geared toward sustaining our peaceful coexistence. The adverse effects of war and unrest cannot be quantified, as some of the damages and wounds caused by civil war and other violent occurrences in the country are still fresh with us,” Oyebanji said.

Harping on the need for sustainable peace in Nigeria and his unflagging commitment to security in Ekiti, Oyebanji stated that the focus and kernel of his administration and policy thrust placed high priority on security of lives and property.

Oyebanji added: “Since the inception of this administration, one of our major tasks is security of lives and property in the state. As much as you can witness, this administration has continued to improve on security, and we will not be deterred in sustaining the existing peace.”

The governor appealed to Nigerians to place priority on peace and refrain from acts that could stoke acrimony or unrest and allow the peace-building mission of this current administration to be fully realised.

In his address, the State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, retired Col. Atoki Abdurasaq, said Nigeria should continue to honour those galant soldiers, who sacrificed their lives, comforts and dedicated their energies to keep the sovereignty of the Nigerian nation.

“The emblem launch is aimed at raising funds in support of the families of those who died at the war fronts, while fighting for our nation. This is the best honour we can do for their families, so that their efforts won’t be in vain,” he said.

At the occasion, Oyebanji, the deputy governor, members of the State Executive Council, Local Government Chairmen and the service Chiefs, donated to the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund.