Lagos (Lagos State) – The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese in Enugu State, Most Rev. Godfrey Onah, has urged Nigerians to coexist peacefully irrespective of diverse ethnic, religious and political affiliations and beliefs.
Onah made this charge during the 2nd National Meeting of the Families at the St. Agnes Catholic Church, Maryland, Lagos on Tuesday.
The bishop said that living in harmony would not only further promote national development but also help to attain happiness in the society.
Onah also advised Christians, especially Catholics, to shun some traditional practices such as the `osu’ and òhu’ caste systems as they were not in line with the word of God.
Also, the Most Rev. Adewale Martins, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, said conflicts had many associated vices.
“No family can move forward in the midst of conflicts and chaos; the same is applicable to a nation.
“The security challenges facing some parts of our country has affected our lives and the socio-economic development of our dear nation.
“Daily, we hear of fights, bomb explosions, suicide attacks, Boko Haram, Fulani herdsmen and other manner of conflicts.
“In this disharmony, a lot of people have been rendered homeless and without families.
“We are not even talking about those who have died as a result of these or the countless economic losses.
“I call on all Nigerians to live peacefully with one another; we should continue to preach and exhibit love, tolerance, peace and unity as demonstrated in the Scriptures’’, Martins said.
The theme of the meeting is The Nigerian Family: Agent of Mercy and Harmony. (NAN)