Easter: Buhari preaches love, care for less privileged

…Assures he won’t allow criminals to outrun the country

President Muhammadu Buhari in his 2019  Easter message to Nigerians, has charged them to use this season to show love to their neighbours, and cater to the needs of the less-privileged in their midst.

This is even as he expressed dismay over killings, kidnappings and violence, as seen in the recent tragic incidents in some states of the federation, describing it as gloomy and unfortunate.

He however vowed that under his watch, he will not allow those he described as “merchants of evil and death” to overwhelm the nation. He reiterated that the nation will triumph over them – terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and the like.

According to him, “This should not be. We must reinforce the bond of brotherhood and good neighborliness that citizens of a cohesive country must share. We must not allow the few bad elements in our communities to put asunder our communal tendencies and chords of unity.”

Buhari who noted that Easter is the most important feast in the Christian calendar and represents God’s redemptive mission over humanity, the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair and good over evil, assures that his administration will do all to motivate the security personnel to take on the criminals headlong.

The President said: “I know from my regular interactions with security chiefs, state governors, victims and members of communities caught up in the unfortunate cycle of violence, that Nigerians are united against the evil minority.

“This administration will do all it takes to adequately equip and motivate our armed forces and other law enforcement agencies to enable them successfully confront these security challenges. We will not allow merchants of evil and death to overwhelm the nation. Under my watch, the nation will triumph over them – terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and the like.”

He added, “On this holy occasion, I enjoin all Nigerians to intensify prayers for peace and security to return to all parts of the country. I also urge you not to lose hope of a brighter and greater future for the country when we do the right things in love. Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.

“I do not take the import of my re-election for granted, especially the expectations of majority of Nigerians towards providing adequate security, fixing the economy and fighting corruption.

“The obligation of this administration as we prepare to take governance to the Next Level, is to continue to provide dedicated and honest leadership, where every citizen irrespective of religion or ethnic origin, feels secure to live, invest and prosper; where public office holders are accountable; and law breakers are brought to justice.

“Once more, I wish all our Christian brothers and sisters in Nigeria and around the world celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a Happy Easter.”