Eko Hot Blog reports that President Bola Tinubu has appealed to religious leaders to refrain from vilifying or denigrating the nation in their sermons.
During a Ramadan Iftar with traditional rulers and religious leaders at the State House on Thursday in Abuja, the President underscored the important role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.
He urged the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of those in elective positions, emphasizing that his administration is determined to turn Nigeria’s challenges into prosperity. President Tinubu reiterated that no terrorist can defeat the collective will of Nigerians, no matter how hard they try to prey on innocent citizens.
“Yesterday in Abuja, I attended the burial of the 17 soldiers killed in action at Okuama, Delta State. I saw their pregnant wives and little kids,” he said. “The love of the nation is in your hands. Pray for our country. Educate our children. The sermons we preach to the members of our churches and mosques are important.”
The President further stated, “Do not condemn your own nation. As a Yoruba man and as our fathers will say, ‘no matter how slippery the bottom of your child is, you must leave the beads there.’ Leave the beads there. This is your country; do not condemn it in sermons, do not abuse the nation. Leadership is meant for changes.”
He encouraged the religious leaders to wait until the next election to change a bad leader but not to condemn the country itself. “_Yes, this leader is bad, fine. Wait until the next election to change him, but do not condemn your country. Do not curse Nigeria. This is a beautiful land,_” Tinubu said.
The President, who acknowledged the birthday wishes and goodwill extended to him on the occasion, reminded the leaders that his birthday on March 29, 2024, coincided with Good Friday. “I have earned the honour of having my birthday fall on Good Friday, and I pray that on this Maundy Thursday, you all shall return to your homes safely. May God guide and keep you and your families in good health, and lift your spirits,” Tinubu prayed.
Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the pivotal roles of religious and traditional rulers in promoting peace and unity, urging them to continue to “build bridges that transcend ethnic and religious divides.”
Shettima expressed delight that the nation’s economy is on a rebound, noting the strengthening of the naira against the dollar. “The President means well for the nation, and he has continued to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership,_” he said. “_For many years, fuel subsidy was an albatross. The President took a bold decision from day one, and he hit the ground running. Now the economy is turning the corner.”
Speaking on behalf of the Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, assured the President of the unwavering support of traditional rulers and commended the government’s efforts to address the hike in food prices and security challenges.
“You are not alone, Mr. President. The prices of food items and goods are gradually coming down. You are doing your best on security, and we cannot allow you to do it alone. We will join hands to support your vision to the betterment of our nation,” the Ooni said.
The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, representing the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, empathy, and unity. On the security situation, he expressed optimism that the country will return to peace and stability. “I am happy to see representatives of Muslim and Christian communities in this room. I pray God Almighty blesses the President for him to do more to take the country to the Promised Land,” the Emir prayed.
Apostle Samson Fatokun, General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), commended President Tinubu for fostering a harmonious relationship between the State and the Church. “We are encouraged that your administration has shown great determination in tackling the challenges of kidnapping and banditry and bringing to justice the perpetrators of this dastardly act,” he said. “We shall continue to show our support to your administration so that you can execute your noble intention for the nation.”
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