Pray against bandits, Buhari tells Nigerians

President Muhammadu Buhari has asked Nigerians to pray against kidnapping and banditry.

In a statement to commemorate Eid-l Fitr, Buhari urged Nigerians to ignore those using religion as a tool of division for their own selfish advantage.

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He said the country can overcome its problems if Nigerians come together.

“On this blessed occasion, I wish that the Eid festival brings with it peace, safety, security, brotherhood and love amongst all,” Buhari said in the statement which Garba Shehu, his spokesman, issued on his behalf.

“Unity and solidarity among all citizens, Muslims and Christians are imperative especially at a time when our country is faced with multiple challenges which are surmountable only when we come together as one.

“It is important that we remember how we share, through our faiths, common bonds that should serve to unite us and not allow ourselves to succumb to those who seek to divide us, using our two great religions, for their own selfish advantages.

“We should jointly pray against the tragic incidents of kidnapping and banditry and the desperate quest for political power expressed through blackmail against the existence of our country as a united entity.

“We must resist the temptation to retreat into our communities. I urge our political and religious leaders as well as traditional rulers to encourage our citizens to turn towards one another in love and compassion.”