Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Mr Benedict Alabi, has charged religious leaders to persistently preach the virtue of tolerance among their followers to engender peaceful co-existence.
He, noted that peaceful atmosphere practically determines speedy development of any nation irrespective of available resources.
Alabi, gave the charge on Thursday in Ikire, his country home, while playing host to Islamic leaders from Irewole/Ayedaade/Isokan federal constituency.
The religious leaders, who were led by the Chief Imam of Ikire-land and Chairman, league of Imam and Alfas in the federal constituency, Sheilk Raji Ajibade Olounniose, alongside All Progressives Congress, APC’s stalwarts from the axis joined the Deputy Governor to break fast.
Alabi, explained that the purpose of breaking fast with them was to have a veritable platform to pray for sustainable peace and improved economy in the state and Nigeria as a whole.
He, enjoined political leaders in the country to form a formidable front and unite against daunting national challenges, especially the pervasive insecurity and economic turbulence, as he identified religious bigotry as a bane of peace and growth.
“It is not contestable that this is a critical moment in the annals of our nation, so, what we need now as religious leaders and patriotic citizens is tireless prayers and unity of purpose, to overcome all these challenges.
“As a people, we must start to think less of our differences and focus more on those values that unite us. This is a necessary orientation we must start to imbibe and instill in our consciousness for better future”, Alabi advised.
