I stood by my words, Nigeria is a failed state — Na’Abba says after grilling by DSS

By JIDE OYEKUNLE

Former Speaker House of Representatives, Ghali Umar Na’abba, said he stands by his words that the country is sliding to a ‘failed state’ considering the insecurity, corruption and bad governance in the country.

He disclosed this on Monday night in Abuja while addressing journalists at the Headquarters of National Consultative Front (NCFront) shortly after his release from the Department of State Service (DSS).

Na’abba was grilled by the operatives of the agency over his comment on the plan by his group to bring about a new Nigeria that will work for all.

The former Speaker said his invitation was bordered on the usage of some ‘words’ in his address that needed further clarification.

He said the DSS was not comfortable with the two words ‘failed state’ and ‘self-determination’ but he provided clarification and they were satisfied.

He explained that he did not disown or deny any of his comments during the interrogation with the officials of the service adding that everything he said was the truth.

According to Na’abba, “We had an interesting outing with DSS and we went through all my presentations and also interview with Channels TV.

“What happened was that there were certain words that appeared in my address and interview which needed some clarifications and which clarification I made. We were both satisfied with what happened. We advised one another. The DSS have their own job and their own experience. I too have my own vocation also have my own experience. And we felt highly enriched by our experiences.

“That is how things are supposed to be. It went successfully. I enjoyed my stay there. I had no problems with the way they received me.

“In my address I used the words “failed state” and “self determination”. When we say out words, what we mean may be different from what other persons perceive and that was what happened.

“Self determination simply in our own context means Nigerians must be allowed to live the way they want to live. So far they have observed protocols in peace. It does not mean dismemberment of the country.” (Daily Independent)