Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Tuesday charged Nigerians to show sympathies for the families of those who died or suffered disabilities at the war fronts while defending the country’s territorial integrity.
Oyebanji spoke during an emblem and appeal fund launch in commemoration of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.
Represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Gov Oyebanji expressed sympathy 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.
The governor said: “As people, we cannot over-celebrate 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.”
He added: “Therefore, our gathering here is not only to celebrate the fallen heroes but to also raise funds to assist the immediate families of the war veterans.
“As good citizens of this country, our concern and aspiration should be geared towards 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.”
The governor appealed to Nigerians to place priority on peace and refrain from acts that could stoke the fire of acrimony or unrest.
In his address, the Ekiti State chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Col Atoki Abdurasaq (retd), said Nigeria should continue to honour the gallant soldiers who sacrificed their lives, comforts, and energies to keep the sovereignty of the Nigerian nation.
“The emblem launch is aimed at raising funds to support 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.
Governor Oyebanji, his deputy, members of the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, and the service chiefs who graced the occasion donated to the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund.
