closed-door discussions with some leaders of the ruling All Progressives
Congress (APC) was purely meant to build bridges across divides at a
time the country is drifting towards civil war.
Fani-Kayode, on his official Facebook page in response to series of
criticism over his hobnobbing with APC chieftains, noted that the
discussions were just based on state of the nation, pressing national
issues, party politics and the way forward.
He said, “Yesterday afternoon I had the distinct honor 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.
“We discussed the state of the nation, pressing national issues, party
politics and the way forward. These meetings are wide-ranging and
ongoing and I am 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.”
“This is a time in which we must set all our differences aside, build
bridges and come together as one lest our country drifts into
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
with on some issues, is vital and inevitable.
“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.
“Despite our differences, as leaders and statesmen, we must all sheath
our swords and ensure that we never go down that path.”