President Muhammadu Buhari said on Thursday that recent upsurge in banditry, kidnappings and other violent crimes in the country, shook him, but assured the nation that the killers would be defeated ultimately.
He stated that security agencies had been given the necessary support to end the killings, which the President admitted was a trying phase that would pass away.
Buhari raised his concerns in an Easter message he released in Abuja.
In the message, which he personally signed, the President rejoiced with Christians, urging all to “use this auspicious season to show love to our neighbours, and cater to the needs of the less-privileged in our midst,” a lifestyle exemplified by Jesus Christ.
On the security challenges, he stated, “Our nation is currently gripped with gloom over unfortunate killings, kidnappings and violence, as seen in the recent tragic incidents in some states of the federation.
“This should not be. We must reinforce the bond of brotherhood and good neighbourliness that citizens of a cohesive country must share. We must not allow the few bad elements in our communities to put asunder our communal tendencies and chords of unity.
“I know from my regular interactions with security chiefs, state governors, victims and members of communities caught up in the unfortunate cycle of violence, that Nigerians are united against the evil minority.
“This administration will do all it takes to adequately equip and motivate our armed forces and other law enforcement agencies to enable them successfully confront these security challenges. We will not allow merchants of evil and death to overwhelm the nation.
“Under my watch, the nation will triumph over them – terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and the like.”
In his message, President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, urged Nigerians to imbibe the value of sacrificing in the interest of the country as demonstrated by Jesus Christ.
He said Christ’s selfless service to humanity was being commemorated across the world at the Easter period.
Saraki stated this in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, on Thursday.
He congratulated Christian faithful in Nigeria and across the world as they celebrate the Easter festivities.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their steadfastness and prayers which he said, had immense impact on the peace, unity and continued survival of the nation.
He noted that the successful conduct of the 2019 general elections was a direct testament to the sincere efforts and prayers of all Nigerians.
Saraki said, “The Easter period is again a reminder that we have to imbibe the spirit of making sacrifices in the interest of Nigerians as exemplified by Jesus Christ whose birth, life, passion, death and resurrection brought salvation to mankind.”
Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, enjoined Edo residents and Christians across the country to emulate Jesus Christ’s example of selfless sacrifice as espoused in commemoration of Good Friday.
In his message to mark Good Friday, a Christian Holiday in preparation for Easter celebration, Obaseki said, “As Christian faithful celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on Calvary this Easter season, I urge everyone to reflect on the essence of this day, the value of giving oneself and passion for the downtrodden.
“Good Friday embodies Christ’s love for mankind, for which he gave his life. Likewise, as we celebrate, we should remember to be our brother’s keeper, uphold the spirit of togetherness and sacrifice for the greater good of all.”
He urged Edo residents to celebrate peacefully and take the opportunity to share the love of the season with their neighbours, noting, “I enjoin Edo people to share the love of this season with their neigbhours. Adequate arrangement has been made to ensure hitch-free Easter celebration in the state.”
Kwara State Governor-elect, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, congratulated Christians on the successful completion of the Lent and Easter celebration.
“This period reminds everyone of the sacrifice, selflessness and commitment of Jesus Christ. I therefore call on Nigerians, especially Kwarans, to reflect on the lessons of Easter and translate same to everyday event in our lives,” the governor-elect said in a statement issued by his media aide Rafiu Ajakaye.
He urged everyone to also strive to bequeath a legacy of peace and selflessness to the coming generations, as did Jesus Christ.
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