Osun Commissioner Warns Against Political Violence, Religious Bigotry

 

Ismaeel Uthman

THE Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, has warned against political violence ahead of the July 16, 2022 governorship election and the general elections coming up next year.

Badmus who also called on Nigerians to excuse religious bigotry, said the peace and unity of Nigeria is fragile, saying the country cannot afford any act of violence that could snowball into unrest.

According to Badmus, it is high time Nigerians excused violence in every form, saying what the country needs is peace and unity for rapid socioeconomic development.

He spoke on Monday while felicitating with Christians on Easter season through a statement. 

The statement reads: “I celebrate with our Christian brethren who have dedicated their time to the holy preaching and fast for 40 days and 40 nights.

“The Easter season teaches us unity, love, trust but more importantly, steadfastness and sacrifice to live in peace and harmony with one another.

“Now, more than ever, we need to imbibe and emulate the teachings of Christ with a view to reunite and live harmoniously together.

“May the multiple blessings of these spiritual season radiate in our lives now and always. May this season teach us the true love of God, unity, trust and guide our thoughts and deeds as we wade through an increasingly volatile world. May God heal the wounds created by conflicts across the globe. God bless our homeland.

“Importantly, I urge our people to excuse religious bigotry, extremism and political violence in any form. The peace and unity of the country are fragile; we cannot afford any act of violence that may snowball into unrest in Nigeria.

“Easter refreshes our hope and gives a rebirth of joy.  May every good thing that is dead in our lives be resurrected. May the State of Osun continue to enjoy peace, tranquility and progress.”