Senate to meet security chiefs over IPOB crisis

He said the meeting would address the tension in the South-East and Plateau State.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, September 17, Saraki said that security agencies, political and religious leaders must work for the promotion of dialogue as means for tackling agitations, to ensure peace in the country.

The Senate President urged all Nigerians to maintain peace and avoid statements or actions capable of aggravating the tension in the country.

Saraki said that the crises in the country are not unconnected to the economic challenges being faced by citizens.

He said: "The tension in some parts of the country has its roots substantially in the economic situation.

"The nation should be assured that some of the legislative and executive actions taken to address the economic problems are beginning to yield fruits.

"This is why we recently witnessed the rebound of the economy and the exit of the country from recession."

He called for calm among the people, especially in the South-East and Plateau, saying that the government requires the cooperation of everyone in solving all problems.

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The Senate President added, "I want to appeal to our people to avoid stoking ethnic or religious fires. We should not deepen the fault lines of our nation and place citizens in danger of violence and sustained crises.

"The government requires the support of all Nigerians and we should please give peace a chance. No real development or genuine economic activity can take place in the midst of crisis or tension.

"Investments and development thrive only where there is peace."

He advised political, community and religious leaders to take actions that will calm the tension and reassure the people that the best way was for us is to live together in peace and harmony.