By Yusuf Adua
Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has explained the reason behind his closed-door discussions with some leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
News Live Nigeria gathered that Fani-Kayode met with the Chairman of APC Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) and Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni as well as Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello at Buni’s guest house in Abuja.
FFK who spoke via his official Facebook page today noted that the discussions were genuinely based on the state of the nation, pressing national issues, party politics, and the way forward.
“Yesterday afternoon I had the distinct honour and pleasure of having a very productive and important meeting with the National Chairman of the APC, Governor Mai Buni of Yobe state and Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state”, he began.
He said he discussed the state of the nation, pressing national issues, party politics, and the way forward with the party men adding that such would not be the end as his meetings would be wide-ranging and continuous, therefore, he was delighted to be involved in them.
“Despite the obvious benefits and wisdom in this noble initiative it amazes me that some people should feel that it is wrong for me to sit with other leaders in the country to discuss issues which touch and concern the national cohesion, future, and stability of our country”, FFK reasoned.
Fani-Kayode thought that the citizens must come together during this critical phase where they must set all their differences aside, build bridges and come together as one to defend the country against fratricidal butchery and civil war.
“It is right and proper for us to talk and to attempt to join hands across political, religious and regional lines to save Nigeria”.
“I can and will never compromise or jettison my core fundamental principles for any reason and I stand firmly on my honestly held opinion that we need to enthrone equity, justice, and fairness in this country for it to survive.”
“I also believe in restructuring the country and in a vigorous and effective fight against terrorism. The fact that I am in talks with leaders from a cross-section of political parties, including the ruling party, does not in any way derogate from this and does not mean that I will ever change those views.”
“The next few months will be critical in terms of whether or not our country will survive as one and I believe that if we want it to do so dialogue, building bridges, and collaboration, even with those that you may disagree”.
“That was the purpose of our meeting. Permit me to add the following for the record. I will always stand for justice and I will never cease to oppose evil. Yet the greatest evil that we are confronted with today is the prospect of a second civil war.”
FFK concluded by pointing out that despite the differences in our country as leaders and statesmen, we must all sheath our swords and ensure that we never go down that path.