Nigerians have reacted to a comment by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama that Benin Republic has expressed readiness to become Nigeria’s 37th state.
The minister made the comment after a close-door meeting with Aurélien Agbenonci, his Beninoise counterpart on Saturday.
Onyeama stated that the Beninoise President, Patrice Talon made the offer for his nation to be integrated into Nigeria when he met President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja few weeks back.
“The President of Benin said as far as they are concerned, they want (not just saying it like that) but in reality, Benin should be the 37th state of Nigeria,” he said.
“We should really be one. They charged us to come together at ministerial level, to work out a framework for a sustainable relationship,” Onyeama said.
However, many Nigerians took to Facebook to express mixed feelings.
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Ahmed Abubakar wrote, “Most of African countries their daily dreams is to be as educated, beautifully diverse and as professionals as Nigeria.
“But some of the Nigerians failed to understand these abundance blessing that Allah bestowed upon us.”
Hector Ihejirika wrote, “Benin Republic, your suffering won’t get part two. The way they will marginalise, segregate…
“Nepotism they will mete on you because (of) your religion and tribe, you will live to regret your action. You better ask the southern people what they are passing through.”
Mohammed Usman wrote, “Benin Republic was initially under the Oyo empire before Brazil helped them in the war that gave them self rule as Dahomey, before they later changed to Benin Republic.”
Emmanuel Henny wrote, “It will be the greatest mistake of their lives.
“We are trying to run away from this country injustice and they want to be part of it. Na wa ohhh”
Umar Farouq Usman wrote, “Please don’t come and join us; try to create your own happiness by yourselves.
“We are trying hard to earn a living here in Nigeria. I pray for better Benin Republic and better Nigeria. May peace and unity be with us.”
Abdullahi Tukur Jr. wrote, “That’s a welcome development, we need to merge all West African countries as a single country, United States of West Africa (USW).
“So that we can build a strong economy, military power, etc.”