Writers, under the auspices of the Nigerian Centre of PEN International (PEN Nigeria), have tasked the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration on the need to improve the security situation in the country as well as the economic recession.
The group lamented that the rising wave of terror attacks has made it extremely difficult for “writers, in particular, to interact physically with other members of the literary community across the country. It also said many farmers now dread going to their farms because of insecurity, which is a threat to food security”.
The group made the observation in a statement signed by its President, Folu Agoi, and Secretary, Dagga Tolar.
While appreciating the government for the steps taken so far to confront the problem, Pen Nigeria called on Asiwaju Tinubu to stem the tide of terror attacks in no time “so that citizens can begin to move freely for cultural collaboration and integration, and growth in socio-economic and other activities”.
The group added: “We long to live in a society where everyone – government and citizens – cares about the sanctity of life, and shows respect for human dignity,” the group stated.
It also called on the National Assembly to approve the National Book Policy (NBP), which is meant to take care of the interests of book stakeholders.
The group added: “We would also like to plead with members of the National Assembly to kindly revisit and approve the National Book Policy (NBP), which is meant to take care of the interests of writers/authors, publishers, editors/proof-readers, printers, marketers/distributors, booksellers, librarians and archivists, besides readers, including students and teachers. The policy, which is essential for educational development, good value system, good governance and advancement of civilisation, was first submitted to the August Assembly in 2013 – 10 years ago.”
( THE NATION)
