Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has reiterated the need for religious leaders to continue preaching peace and tolerance for the overall unity, peace, progress and development of the country.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Bologi Ibrahim, said Bago made the call when he received members of the Niger State Imams Forum and other Islamic organisations in the state on a condolence visit over the death of 37 artisanal miners.
The governor appreciated the Islamic leaders for the visit, appealing to them to always preach peace to ensure better understanding and unity of purpose among citizens.
He also advised them to stay clear of politics and instead remain advocates of peace while doing their best to curb societal ills by teaching Nigerians to be God-fearing in all their dealings with one another.
Bago further appealed to the religious leaders to remain steadfast in praying for him, the state and the country for prosperity to thrive, assuring them that with prayers, the country would overcome the challenges confronting it.
The governor acknowledged that parts of the state are facing security challenges, calling on religious leaders not to relent in seeking divine intervention and preaching brotherly love among Nigerians, irrespective of their differences.
The leader of the delegation and Director-General, Bureau for Religious Affairs, Malam Umar Faruk Abdullahi, said the various Islamic groups visited the Government House to condole with the governor and the people of the state over the loss of the 37 artisanal miners and encourage him to remain strong in faith.
Faruk described the incident as devastating to all Nigerlites, reminding the governor that Allah tests the faith of His servants in different ways.
He urged Bago to see the incident as a test that would eventually pass and help the state become stronger in all spheres.
He encouraged the governor not to be deterred by events unfolding in the state but to hold firmly to the remembrance of Allah, whom he described as the Guardian of all mankind.
The Chief Imam of Minna, Malam Jibril Isah, led a prayer session for the deceased and for the peace and unity of the state and the country as a whole.