The Igbo Delegates Assembly (IDA), a socio-cultural/political group, on Wednesday in Makurdi urged Nigerians to exercise caution in assessing the new administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

In a statement after its meeting in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, IDA said this was necessary because the success or failure of President Buhari would rub off on the entire country.

“As many Nigerians continue to canvass divergent views about the administration of President Buhari, the Igbo Delegates Assembly calls for caution.

“This is because the success or failure of the President will rub off on the entire country.

The leadership/umbrella body of Ndigbo in the 19 northern states of Nigeria and the FCT stated further that, “The best thing for Nigeria at this present time is for us all to rally support for the new administration, instead of deliberately picking holes in its activities at the slightest excuse.”

The group urged all Nigerians and the world at large to see the present administration as the will of God and give President Buhari their maximum support.

“This should be through prayers, constructive advice, trust, good conduct, et cetera, knowing that if President Buhari fails, Nigeria has failed and if he succeeds, Nigeria has succeeded.”

IDA also expressed its unflinching support for the fight against corruption, saying it must however be through without sparing anybody, no matter how highly placed.

“We say this because of the negative impact of corruption on the psyche of the nation.”

The group said it was unanimous in its resolve to support President Buhari’s zero tolerance for corruption.

“We are solidly behind him in his avowed determination to recover the stolen money belonging to Nigeria and the attendant punishment, no matter who is involved.

“We even suggest that the investigation/probe should start from 1999 to date.”

IDA equally advised President Buhari to give every Nigerian equitable sense of belonging.

“This may help in addressing the incessant quest for self-determination by some ethnic nationalities, as well as the religious sentiment which is fast assuming an alarming dimension.”

The group advised aides of the President not to perpetrate acts which could derail him.

It also called for the inclusion of Nigerian youths and women in political appointments so as to give them a sense of belonging.

“We believe in one indivisible Nigeria, where equity, justice and fair play prevail.

“In view of this, we therefore enjoin Nigerians to begin to prefer each other in love without limit.” (NAN)

•Photo shows President Buhari

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