Enugu celebrates Armed Forces Remembrance Day amidst tight security

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day was celebrated in Enugu on Wednesday amidst tight security.

There was heavy presence of armed police, soldiers and the civil defence corps in and around the venue.

Roads leading to the venue were blocked by the security operatives as cars had to take alternative routes.

The event featured the laying of wreaths by the Deputy Governor of the state, Mr SundayOnyebuchi, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Enugu Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Olaniyi, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in the state Mr George Amalu.

Others who laid the wreath in honour of the departed heroes were the Commissioner of Police, Mr Adamu Abubakar, and the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council in the state Amb. Lawrence Agubuzo.

The highlight of the occasion was a 21-gun salute and release of pigeons in honour of the departed heroes and peace in the country.

Speaking with newsmen, Onyebuchi pledged the state government's commitment to support the armed forces in the state.

“We do not and I do not believe we will have any other country other than Nigeria.

'I call on all Nigerians to put our differences aside and come together to build a nation for the benefit will accrue to us.

“Let us emphasise on those things that unite us and build Nigeria that can support our children,'' he said.

Also in an interview, Olaniyi promised that the armed forces would do everything to ensure adequate security in the country.

“We must remain united. Nigeria is a great country and it is an indivisible entity, not to be separated,'' the GOC said.

Also in an interview, Amalu called for improvement in the welfare and weaponry of the armed forces to ensure effective productivity.