Lafia- Bishop Matthew Audu of the Catholic Diocese of Lafia, Nasarawa State, on Sunday called on Nigerians to preach the gospel of peace, unity and love.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lafia, Audu said this would help the country to overcome its security challenges and achieve speedy development.
The cleric said the appeal had become imperative because of the lingering security challenges in some parts of the country.
“Our role as religious leaders is to preach the good news to the people and to ensure that peace and unity is sustained in the states and in Nigeria at large.
“No meaningful development can be achieved in any society where there is no peace; peace is priceless and is non-negotiable.
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“The security challenges facing the state (Nasarawa) and some parts of the country have affected our lives and socio-economic development.
“I want to call on all Nigerians to continue to preach peace, unity, love and tolerance as demonstrated in the Scriptures.
“If there is peace, unity, love and tolerance among Nigerians, the security challenges facing the state and the country will be a thing of the past.
“I also want to call on Nigerians to intensify their prayers for their peaceful co-existence and the development of the country for the benefit of all,” Ishaya said.
The bishop also admonished adherents of both Christianity and Islam to be steadfast and adhere strictly to their religious doctrines for them to obtain the favour of God.
Specifically, the cleric urged Christians in the state to continue to tolerate one another irrespective of ethnic, religious and political affiliations and beliefs.
On the role of wealthy individuals and corporate bodies in the empowerment of the people, Ishaya appealed for their intervention and support.
“They should continue to assist the underprivileged in the society in a bid to improve their living standards. (NAN)
