Sequel to the closure of land borders by the federal government, the immediate past Senator that represented Imo East Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Sam Anyawu, has said that the policy though a good one, was brought forth at a wrong time, and targeted at a particular group of people.
He said the people of the South-East and the South-South, who are majorly importers, are the target of the border closure, noting that the closure is telling on the people in the area.
Anyawu, who disclosed this while speaking to newsmen at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, on Monday, noted that most of the borders in the north are still being used for smuggling activities, due to the volatile nature of the area.
“There is no strong security post at the northern borders. I think it is high time government have a rethink towards that policy. This policy at this time will be harsh on the people, and will affect our relationship with other neighbouring countries.
“ As a stakeholder in this country, l think this is not the right time. More time should be given, and the people should be given proper education on it and why such policy,” he said.
The ex-Senate Ethics Committee Chairman also urged the federal government, through the Central Bank, to diversify the economy by giving assistance to entrepreneurs to invest in agriculture.
Meanwhile, a clergy and the Presiding Bishop of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, and Christlike Churches worldwide, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, in his view, commended the federal government on the border closure, if the purpose was to make Nigeria produce and consume its own goods.
“No nation became great by importation of goods. India at a time closed their borders and began to produce all they needed in their country”.
Corlins Walter
