President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged religious leaders to desist from condemning the nation in their sermons.
The President stated this during Ramadan Iftar with traditional rulers and religious leaders at the State House on Thursday in Abuja.
He emphasized the important role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens, urging the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of those in elective positions.
President Tinubu declared that his administration is determined to turn Nigeria’s challenges into prosperity.
The President reiterated that no terrorist can defeat the collective will of Nigerians, no matter how hard they try to prey on innocent citizens.
He urged traditional and religious leaders to forge a strong bond with the government to defeat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality in the country.
He said: ”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.
”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.
”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.
”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.”
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.
Shettima Reacts
Also speaking, 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.
He said: ”The President means well for the nation, and he has continued to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership.
”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.”
