Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari (photo), has on Monday promised to intensify the fight against Boko Haram as well as those supporting secession. This he stated in his first speech after returning from three months of sick leave in London.

“Nigeria’s national unity is not negotiable. Terrorists and criminals must be fought and destroyed relentlessly so that the majority of us can live in peace and safety. We shall not allow irresponsible elements to start trouble and when things get bad they run away and saddle others with the responsibility of bringing back order, if necessary with their blood,” the President said.

“With the economy showing signs of recovery, Buhari’s administration needs to demonstrate to businesses and investors that it can ensure a safe environment. Economic security cannot be achieved in an environment of insecurity and terrorism. These negative factors are hydra-headed monsters that should be tackled with serious determination and sincerity,” Sewa Wusu, a Lagos-based analyst at SCM Capital, said sharing the leader’s opinion.

In the last few months, ethnic tensions have appeared amid calls for a separate southeastern state, known as Biafra. Some in the southern Niger Delta oil hub have called for independence and Boko Haram militants are also seeking an Islamic state in the northeast. In June, Yemi Osinbajo held talks with regional leaders in a bid to ease tension following demands by Muslim activists for the eviction of Igbo people from the north.

Let’s recall that President just returned after more than three months on a medical leave in the UK, for the second time in the year. During his absence, it was his vice, Yemi Osinbajo, who led the country. Presently, Nigeria struggles to end a recession which began last year and deal with Boko Haram threat which has displaced and killed many. Amid these, the population fear for their leader, often recalling how late President Yar’Adua passed away in 2010 after months battling sickness.

Anita Fatunji