By Mohammed Baba Busu
Lafia – Governor Tanko Al-makura of Nasarawa State has entreated Christians to use the Lenten season to pray for peace, progress and national unity.
Al-makura’s message is contained in a statement signed by Alhaji Tukur Ahmed, his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, and made available to newsmen in Lafia on Wednesday.
The statement quoted the governor as saying that the lent period was a period to be dedicated to praying and studying the Bible so as to further understand and appreciate what God expected from the faithful.
Al-makura said that it was not enough to just profess Christianity without being obedient to the injunctions from one’s creator.
“Jesus preached peace, love and unity; as true followers of Christ, Christians must emulate such virtues so as to enjoy the blessings of God Almighty both here, and in the hereafter.
He said that lent was equally a period of sober reflection and more commitment to the acts of piety, tolerance and dedication to God.
Al-makura said that the period was coming at a time the country needed prayers more than ever before, and urged religious and community leaders to propagate the message of mutual respect necessary for collective pursuance of set goals.
The governor emphasised the need for Nigerians to tolerate each other and live in peace irrespective of religious, cultural and ethnic differences.