Former Nigeria Vice President and current Presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has lamented what he called, “pervasive lack of unity amongst Nigerians.”
According to Atiku, such pervasive lack of unity, together with hardships in the land and the harrowing experiences that people go through to survive, are the reasons why the citizens of the country must do a sober reflection on the State of the Nation.
The PDP Presidential flag bearer, in his message today, July 8, on the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration coming up tomorrow, stressed that Nigeria has broken and insecurity has become a daily menace staring all our compatriots in the face.
Atiku advised Nigerians to imbibe selfless sacrifice and communal love as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ishmael, to “guide us, as we submit ourselves and needs to the Will of Allah.
“If we emulate the righteousness and great virtues of the Holy Prophet, mankind shall no doubt receive the reward of Allah’s love and mercy.
“Meanwhile, the privileged and wealthy ones amongst us need to intensify their acts of charity to the less privileged. There’s love in sharing.
“Let’s work in concert to purposefully lessen the hardship facing our brothers and sisters. Let’s love our neighbors as ourselves.
“I wish to also task the government at all levels to play its Constitutional role, by being upright and dutiful and prioritize the needs of the people they have taken an oath to serve. The unity, security and development of our country is sacrosanct.
“The expression of love and sacrifice symbolized by the Eid-el-Kabir celebration has a strong effect in the relationship between the government and the governed. It is incumbent on the government to optimally discharge its responsibilities to the people. It is only when this is done that there can be love between the government and the governed.
“Love is a pre-condition for God’s mercies and blessings, and truth must guide all relationships, especially between the government and the people.
“As stakeholders, the citizens too, should take a lesson from the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir by being up and doing in their civic responsibilities.
“As we inch towards the deadline on the on-going voter registration exercise, the people must ensure that they play their roles by not just getting their Permanent Voters Card (PVC), but casting their votes for the best candidates in the election next year.
“Above all, I pray for peace during and after the Eid celebration even as I task Nigerians to work even harder in ensuring unity of all peoples, tribes and faiths in the country.”
