The Bayelsa State Government has enjoined Moslem faithfuls in the state to continue to live in peace with the adherents of other religions, noting that all religions are one and important, as the government will continue to give equal recognition to all of them.
Governor Seriake Dickson gave the advice Monday, while hosting the Bayelsa State Muslim Community, who paid him a Sallah visit to mark the end of the Ramadan fast, at Government House, Yenagoa, said the state government appreciates the prayers, encouragement and support of the Muslim community in the state.
In fulfillment of his promise to support the Muslim community, the governor directed that a parcel of land and a bus be provided for for the building of a central mosque in the state capital and to ease their transportation.
While, congratulating them for observing and completing their mandatory fast, Governor Dickson encouraged them to see Bayelsa State as their home, do their business and live peacefully, advising them to work with all security agencies in the state to ensure the sustenance of already existing peace in the State.
“We live in strange times, where places of worship, schools, motor parks have turned to slaughter yards. Leaders should all pray for peace.
“All religious leaders and followers should always preach peace, unity and good neighbourliness. The Bayelsa message of peace, which you have exemplified should be imbibed by all Nigerians”
Welcoming the Muslim leaders to the seat of Government, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Yenagoa, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, disclosed that the government of the state has made it a point of duty to have a regular interaction with the Muslim community to enable them follow theprogrammes and policies of the government.
In his remarks, the Vice President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Bayelsa state chapter, Abdulrahman Zikeye Enewari, said Islam is a religion of peace, condemning the current Boko Haram insurgency in some parts of the country, adding that they are a criminal gang misrepresenting the tenets of Islam.
The Muslim leader endorsed Governor Dickson for a second term in office, considering his monumental achievements in the area of infrastructuraldevelopment within his short period in office.
He assured the Governor of the prayers of the Muslim community in the State for the peace and unity of the country and the sustenance of the current momentum of development in the State.
Bayelsa State Government Press Release
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