Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has admonished Muslims in Nigeria to pray fervently for the unity of the country and rise against all forms of violence.
The governor made the remark in his goodwill message to Muslims in the country as they celebrate Eid el Maulud, which commemorates the birth of Prophet Mohammed (SAW).
Okowa in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika in Asaba on Monday said that Nigeria is currently plagued by insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, herders-farmers clashes and agitations which had continued to impede the growth and development of the nation.
According to him, funds that the Federal and States Governments would have used for development are being used in combating the crimes and protecting lives and property of Nigerians.
The Governor specifically urged the Muslims and other religious groups to intensify prayers for needed reforms for a better Nigeria.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I extend our warmest wishes to Muslims celebrating Eid-el-Maulud in Delta, Nigeria and around the world.
“As a people with great religious beliefs, if we can imbibe and espouse the Holy Prophet’s teachings, our nation will ultimately benefit from it.
“Let us remember to pray fervently for our nation to achieve greater unity and rise against tendencies offensive to democratic tenets and wellbeing of the country and the people, irrespective of religion or place of origin.
“It is the time for a rebirth in the polity, and I urge all well-meaning Nigerians to join hands in that direction, especially in giving the country a new Constitution that will address all contending issues that are reflective of true democracy and federalism,” part of the statement read.
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