In a heartfelt plea for peace and unity, the Patriotism Now Movement has issued a strong statement urging the youth and leaders of Rivers State to embrace patriotism and reject violence. As tensions rise in various parts of the country, particularly in Rivers State, the group has called on citizens to remember their shared humanity and work together to build a better nation, rather than tearing it apart through destructive means.
The National Coordinator and Convener, Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji, emphasized that Nigeria is a blessed country with vast resources and potential. However, he cautioned that the continuous destruction of properties and the negative portrayal of Nigeria on the global stage is undermining the nation’s progress. “This country and our states belong to us,” he said, “Stop the destruction. Stop painting this country bad in the global world. There is no beauty or glory in cursing or abusing our fatherland. Nigeria is blessed.”
In the aftermath of recent protests and vandalism in Rivers State, particularly the destruction of government properties, the movement is calling for immediate change. Comrade Adetunji reminded the youth that government properties belong to the people, stressing that the destruction only harms the masses and disrupts the very fabric of the community. “The youth should shun violence and embrace patriotism, which is the greatest platform for every citizen of Nigeria,” he urged.
The group also highlighted the staggering cost of division and violence, noting that families are torn apart, communities are fragmented, and the nation is polarized. “We are led to believe that our grievances outweigh our shared humanity,” Adetunji said. “These divisions have always been manipulated by those in power to divert attention from their failings, ensuring that the common person remains too preoccupied with fighting among themselves to recognize their collective strength.”
The Patriotism Now Movement advocates for a shift from violence to unity, encouraging citizens to channel their energy towards dialogue and understanding. “Imagine if we directed our energies towards empathy instead of anger,” Adetunji said. “Communities can thrive when we recognize our shared experiences. We must honor our differences while celebrating our common goals.”
The movement stressed that patriotism goes beyond symbolic gestures like singing the national anthem or holding the Nigerian flag. True patriotism, they argued, involves personal responsibility, forging connections, healing old wounds, and fostering open lines of communication within communities. Programs that promote inclusiveness, workshops that emphasize listening, and movements that encourage dialogue are essential to rebuilding trust and unity.
The statement also addressed the broader leadership across Nigeria, urging those in positions of power to prioritize the well-being of the nation over personal gain. Comrade Adetunji called on former Governor Nyesom Wike, current Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and other leaders and stakeholders in Rivers State to embrace patriotism. “Patriotism will allow these individuals to see beyond their personal interests and focus on the love for the progress of Rivers State and its citizens,” he said.
The movement also took aim at the federal government, criticizing political leaders for failing to live up to their promises and for engaging in “audio promises” that never materialize. The group lamented the unpatriotic behavior that has led to corruption, poor policy formulation, and the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.
“The time for patriotism is now,” the Patriotism Now Movement declared, calling for every Nigerian citizen, from the presidency to the grassroots, to embrace a spirit of unity and service. “Our fight is not against one another but against the systemic efforts designed to fracture our communities. Together, through patriotism, brotherly and sisterly love, we can forge a future that recognizes our shared existence and paves the way for true understanding and peace.”
As Rivers State grapples with unrest, the Patriotism Now Movement believes that peace and progress are within reach if the people, youth, and leaders unite under the banner of patriotism, putting the love of their land and fellow citizens above all else.
Signed:
Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji
National Coordinator/Convener, Patriotism Now Movement
07061830662
