A FACTION of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged political, traditional and religious leaders to unite in condemning Boko Haram.
In a message titled: “Imbibing the spirit of Eid-el-Fitri and living together in peace,” the congress called for the militants’ defeat, saying they did not fit into anywhere in a modern society.
Its President, Ayuba Wabba, who issued the message, said: “As we mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitri, we call on our leaders – religious, traditional, political and community – to unite in denouncing the evil that these extreme fanatics represent. They have no place in modern society like ours, and we must work together to defeat them and bring them on their knees.”
The congress greeted the Muslim faithful on the occasion of the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Fitri.
It urged Nigerians to imbibe the spiritual values and virtues of the Eid-el-Fitri, which include self-denial, chastity, sacrifice, forgiveness, sharing and giving.
The end of the month-long Ramadan fasting and purification period, according to the NLC’s faction, “offers us a unique opportunity to reflect not only on our personal lives, but also on the teachings of the Holy Book and our obligations to it”.
“Against the background of the challenging times we are facing as a nation occasioned by the mindless acts of terror that the Boko Haram insurgence has over the last few years inflicted on us as a nation, I urge all Nigerians to rejoice with our Muslim brothers and sisters and be part of the process of national renewal and rebirth, which the fasting and supplication to the almighty Allah seeks to enthrone,” it said.
The message noted that the insurgents continued to pose enormous challenges by destroying the existing harmony among Muslims, Christians and adherents of other religions.
It added that Boko Haram’s tactics of committing mass carnage in churches, mosques, markets and other such soft targets were desperate and despicable ways intended to turn citizens against each other, and create religious hatred.
It added: “We commend the gallantry demonstrated by our armed forces in their recent victories against the insurgents, and urge them not to relent until ultimate victory is achieved.
“We call on our political leaders on the occasion of this celebration to rededicate themselves to the service of our people and provide selfless service to our nation. The wanton cases of corruption, greed and indulgence of public officeholders make the citizens to lose confidence in our public servants.