Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, his Delta counterpart, Ifeanyi Okowa, and the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, yesterday, charged Muslims on tolerance, prayers, unity and peaceful coexistence.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant (Media), Kelvin Ebiri, to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid (the birthday of Prophet Mohammed), the governor said his administration will continue to promote religious tolerance among all residents of the state.
He advised the faithful to imbibe the virtues of love, peace, patience, communal living and honesty that were qualities of the Prophet.
Wike urged the Moslem community to always pray for the government and the people of the state.
Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, urged Muslims to follow the exemplary leadership of the Prophet by promoting peaceful co-existence and offering prayers for peace, unity and continued progress of Nigeria.
The governor recalled that the most populous black nation was experiencing insurgency and other violent crimes, including banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, herders-farmers clashes and agitations which had impeded growth and development.
SIMILARLY, Governor Godwin Obaseki harped on tolerance and peaceful co-existence.
He stated that the celebration was a time of deep reflection and soul-searching, especially with the “challenges we currently face as a nation.”
In another statement signed by his acting Chief Press Secretary, Ogiemwanre Victor, Oba Ewuare II appealed to the adherents to reflect on the teachings of Prophet Mohammed by embracing peace and harmonious co-existence.
The statement reads: “Oba Ewuare II calls for prayers for the nation’s leaders so that they can administer the country on the path of true development, peace, security, unity and progress.
“The Benin monarch wishes the entire Muslims a happy and successful at Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.”
The traditional ruler reminded the celebrants that every religion condemns violence and hatred for one another, adding that faith should be used to build bridges across social, cultural and ethnic divides.