President Muhammadu Buhari has advised Nigerians that they should be weary of forces of division and avoid their antics by all means.
He gave this advice in his message to Nigerians on the Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
According to him in a statement by his media aide Garba Shehu, which was made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja stated that Nigerians should rather promote virtues that unite us rather than cause division among the two major religious faiths.
The message reads in parts; “On this blessed occasion, I wish that the Eid festival brings with it peace, safety, security, brotherhood and love amongst all.
“Unity and solidarity among all citizens, Muslims and Christians are imperative especially at a time when our country is faced with multiple challenges which are surmountable only when we come together as one.
“It is important that we remember how we share, through our faiths, common bonds that should serve to unite us and not allow ourselves to succumb to those who seek to divide us, using our two great religions, for their own selfish advantages.
“We should jointly pray against the tragic incidents of kidnapping and banditry and the desperate quest for political power expressed through blackmail against the existence of our country as a united entity.
“We must resist the temptation to retreat into our communities. I urge our political and religious leaders as well as traditional rulers to encourage our citizens to turn towards one another in love and compassion.”
President also stated that , it is noteworthy and delightful to see Christians breaking fast and in some instances, extending goodwill and gifts to Muslim faithfuls during the Ramadan. “This model also shone through with Muslim groups joining Christian festivities. These are practices that promote brotherhood and forgiveness,” he says.
Buhari also urges Nigerians to continue to observe all COVID-19 prevention measures and celebrate responsibly during the holidays.
