The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to take responsibility for the security of lives and property as the nation goes into Eid-el-Kabir festivities, starting on Saturday, July 9.
In a statement today, July 7, declaring Monday, July 11 and Tuesday, July 12 as public holiday in respect of the festival, the federal government asked Nigerians to put heads and hearts together to achieve relative peace.
“We must all take responsibility for the security of lives and property as we celebrate this year’s festival.”
The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf
Aregbesola, who spoke through a statement on behalf of the Federal Government, “craves the indulgence of every Nigerians to come together, put our heads, hearts and all we have together, in order to achieve relative peace for harmonious coexistence and put an end to insecurities in Nigeria.”
The Minister assured that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari “is committed to the security of lives and properties of all Nigerians, empowering the citizens for successful living, the provisions of social investments programmes and adequate security in the schools.”
He assured all Nigerians of the government’s protection of all under the law, maintenance of law and order and keeping the peace in all situations.
The statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Nigeria, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, quoted the minister as calling on Muslims to continue to imbibe the spirit of love, peace, kindness and sacrifice, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him).
He asked Muslims to use the period to pray for peace, unity, prosperity and the stability of the country, considering the challenges of insecurity the country faces at the moment.
Aregbesola, who wished Muslims a happy Eid-el Kabir celebration, urged Nigerians to take responsibility by reporting any suspicious individuals and criminal activities they observe around them to law enforcement agencies with the use of N-Alerts application that has been designed to mitigate security challenges with prompt response from security agencies: as soon as you “See Something Do N-Alerts”, most especially during this festival.
He also enjoined all Nigerians to be vigilant and observant of intruders in their communities.