By Olukayode Idowu
The Director General of Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has called Muslim Umma in Nigeria on the occasion of Eid al-Adha to pray for peace and development of Nigeria.
Ochogwu, while extending his warmest congratulations to Muslims in the country on the occasion of the festival, said the “Festival of Sacrifice” is a celebration of faith, obedience and devotion. He urged Nigerians to acknowledge the values of sacrifice, compassion, generosity that are embodied in the spirit of Eid al-Adha.
Ochogwu, also charged Nigerians regardless of their religious beliefs or backgrounds, to use this occasion to promote peace, unity, love and harmony, noting that without these virtues a nation is far from development.
He said occasion like this call for a sober reflection, insisting that “our minds should dwell on those things that bind us together and also capable of promoting development in the country.”
He said that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is aware of the current challenges in our country and is working round the clock to ensure that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
He however charged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s administration in his steady steps to make Nigeria great.
He noted that Mr. President’s decisions are geared towards revamping the economy, block all loopholes, curtail insecurity, promote businesses and infrastructural developments amongst other things.
Appealing to Nigerians to give the government of President Tinubu more time, Ochogwu said this is the right occasion, the celebration of Eid al-Adha, a significant event in the Islamic calendar, where Nigerians should acknowledge the values of sacrifice, compassion, generosity that are embodied in this celebration.
He said that the Institute is aware of the enormous challenges facing the country, but charged Nigerians to keep hope alive and continue to have faith that a new Nigeria will rise from the ashes of these challenges.
Ochogwu said: “Let our thoughts and actions be peaceful, tolerant, and receptive towards one another as this is the only organic means to change the dangerous narrative that has eaten deep into our social fabrics and national cohesion. Nigerians should rise up with one accord to build a nation of our dream.
“I congratulate all Nigerians on this auspicious occasion and wish everyone a happy Eid al-Adha.”
