By John Ikani
Two Nigerian groups on Monday confronted each other in New York over the state of things in the African nation.
The groups converged at the Nigerian House on 42nd Street, 2nd Avenue, airing opposing views about the conditions in Nigeria and its unity.
The protests came as President Muhammadu Buhari began his scheduled activities for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at a venue close to the Nigerian Mission.
The first group of Nigerians in Diaspora led by Emmanuel Duara, said they were there to show their support for their fatherland as world leaders assembled for the annual event.
The group members waved the country’s flag, wore white T-shirts, and displayed banners announcing progress made under this administration, their commitment to one Nigeria, and a yearning for peace and progress.
They were, however, opposed by anti-Buhari protesters who called for a referendum to determine the fate of the country.
One of the leaders of the counter group, Foluso Aruleba, highlighted the various problems confronting Nigeria as a nation, asserting that there can be no peace without justice.
She regretted that the Buhari administration had continued to borrow money among the declining value of the naira.
Aruleba demanded a referendum, alleging that plans were on to invade Yorubaland, which she stated would not be acceptable.