Nigerians are expected to lead peaceful lives free from terrorism, insurgency, and troublemaking, according to Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu.
Shortly after praying in the name of Allah with thousands of devout Muslims at the Eid Praying Ground at Abakpa Military Cantonment, Enugu, yesterday, he made the call in his Eid-el-Fitr message to Nigerians.
The GOC observed that, as demonstrated by the lessons of the holy month of Ramadan, a life of peace and hospitality was a divine gift by Almighty Allah.
He stated that for a nation to be progressive and success-oriented, peace, tolerance, and inclusivity were essential. He also said that Nigerians have to work toward making their country the finest in the world.
“In order for us to perceive ourselves as one people under Almighty Allah (God), I encourage every Nigerian to take the lessons of the Holy Month of Ramadan to turn a new leaf and abstain from all forms of evil, trouble-making, terrorism, and insurgency.
“I would like to express my gratitude to Nigerians during this time of love, peace, blessings, and divine forgiveness,”
We should forgive those who have wronged us as the Almighty Allah has forgiven us for our transgressions this season and work toward creating a wealthy and peaceful country free from resentment,” the speaker stated.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, were also thanked by the GOC for their assistance to the Division.
Dada expressed gratitude to the troops and commanders of the Nigerian Army for their selfless service to the nation.
Earlier, Lt.-Col. Husein Eleje, the Chief Imam of 82 Division, exhorted the faithful Muslims to put into practice all they had learned during the month of Ramadan through lectures and holy observance.
According to Eleje, the teachings one learns throughout Ramadan should direct them to keep a positive relationship with Almighty Allah and the other males in their neighborhood or community.
“The Almighty Allah demands from us that we learn to forgive, accommodate others, and show love to those who can never pay us back,” he declared.
“No one nearby should be left out of the celebration; we must share the love of this wonderful season of blessings and forgiveness with everyone in our vicinity, especially with the less fortunate and in need.”