By Mohammed Baba Busu
Etsu Dazhi Doko, Alhaji Yahaya Abdullahi-Madiu, has called for fervent prayers for lasting peace and unity in Doko, Kin Nupe, Niger state, and Nigeria in general.
The Etsu Dazhi made the call during a peace walk in Doko, Lavun Local Government Area of Niger on Monday.
The peace walk is a product of Cardinal Onaiyekan Peace Foundation, Abuja to promote harmonious coexistence nationwide.
Abdullahi-Madiu advised the people to have the spirit of forgiveness to foster unity and socioeconomic development in the area.
According to him, “we should learn how to forgive one another because Allah Himself forgives”.
He noted that Almighty Allah had not made a mistake by creating the people of the area together, as such we should do every thing humanly possible to move it to greater height.
According to him: “We should also continue to be our brothers’ keepers, to collectively bolster peace, unity and even socioeconomic development of the country.
He called on the adherents of the two major religions in the area to be prayerful for a permanent peace in Doko, saying that prayer was key to overcoming any situation we may find ourselves.
The Etsu Dazhi urged that people should continue to tolerant one another and live in peace with each other, irrespective of religious, cultural and ethnic differences.
He also stressed that harmonious relationship among people should always be promoted to enhance peace, unity and progress of every community.
“Peace is the veritable tool of national development and without it, no nation could prosper to greater heights.
The Etsu Dazhi noted that without piety, sacrifice and love, no state or society could advance.
He called on all and sundry to be prayerful, saying that prayers were key to overcoming any situation in which they may find themselves.
Also, the Bishop of Doko Diocese, Rt. Rev. Uriah Ndakolo-Kolo and the Chief Imam of Doko Alhaji Ibrahim Liman who applauded the initiative, called for it’s sustenance and extension to neighbouring communities.
The Representative of the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace Abuja, Amb. Yusuf Idris, said he was impressed with the unity among residents.
The Vice President, Doko Progressive Forum, Mr. Samuel Saidu Yisa, said the exercise had strengthened cooperation among all groups in the community.
The Convener of the Doko Peace Walk, Muhammad Idris Kolo who appreciated all those who participated in the exercise, said efforts were on with development partners to sustain the initiative.
It would be recalled that pupils, students youth groups, security outfits and elders from various communities participated in the Peace Walk.
Highlight of the event included sensitisation on the redesigned new naira notes and ways to avoid electoral violence.
