The Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has warned that rising political tension and divisive narratives could threaten Nigeria’s stability.
He spoke on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu.
Buni said national challenges must be addressed constructively.
He said: “As a country, we must ensure that whatever imperfections exist in our system do not lead to its destruction. We are human beings created to provide solutions.”
The governor raised concerns over statements by some political leaders.
Buni said: “Their statements have been very divisive, which is not good for the people.”
He urged Nigerians to take collective responsibility.
Buni said: “We are problem solvers, and we must continue to resolve whatever differences exist among us.”
He warned against allowing negative elements to define the country.
Buni said: “In every society, you have good, bad, and even worse elements, but the worst should not be allowed to define us as a nation.
“The good should represent who we are.”
He criticised sections of the media and political actors.
Buni said: “Some media organisations and politicians are creating wrong narratives about the country, which is not helpful.”
The governor also condemned reactions to attacks on security personnel.
He said: “It is unfortunate that some people celebrate the killing of security personnel who risk their lives to protect us.
“This is unacceptable and demoralising.”
On democracy, he called for responsible conduct.
Buni said: “Democracy does not amount to disrespect for leaders, elders, or the nation. It should be rule-based, respectful, and guided by decorum.”
He raised concerns over social media use and its impact on public discourse.
The governor also decried persistent politicking.
Buni said: “Politics now begins immediately after the inauguration and continues until the next election.
“This leaves little room for governance.”
He criticised politics driven by personal ambition.
Buni said: “The attitude of ‘if I am not there, let nothing work’ does not build any nation. It must stop.”
He added: “There is no society without leadership.
“When you destroy leadership, you weaken the country itself.”
Buni called on religious leaders to promote unity.
He said: “A preacher should be a messenger of peace, not conflict.
“All religions preach peace, and that must be reflected in their teachings.”
He urged political actors to prioritise national unity ahead of future elections.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr Joseph Ochogwu, described Buni as a strong advocate for unity and nation-building.
He commended the governor’s consistent stance against divisive rhetoric and his commitment to peacebuilding.
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