President Jonathan deplores assault to churches near Chibok

MAIDUGURI (State House Report) –

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has received with dismay and consternation reports of the attacks by Boko Haram on churches in villages near Chibok, Borno State.

The President also observed the renewed targeting by Boko Haram of adherents of a particular religion and urged all lovers of peace and unity to wholly condemn the resurgence of the efforts by agents of global terrorism to disunite and destabilize Nigeria and callously instigating violence among religious groups in the country.

In statement delivered by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Reuben Abati lately, President Jonathan was of the view of most learned Islamic leaders and scholars that no true Muslim will resort to the mindless killing of innocent people at any time, especially not during the holy month of Ramadan to redress any perceived grievance.

The President expressed the belief that the Sunday June 29, 2014 attacks on churches and other similar atrocities by Boko Haram are conclusive proof, if any is still needed that its leaders and members are thoroughly misguided persons, who are only using religion as a cover for their reprehensible crimes against their countrymen and women.

He further charged all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious beliefs to resist this new attempt to undermine the nation’s firm and collective resolve to unite in full support of its armed forces and security agencies against the vicious perpetrators of the brutal attacks on innocent citizens.

Goodluck Jonathan assured all Nigerians that the Federal Government and the national security agencies will continue to intensify the on-going efforts to end the Boko Haram’s senseless attacks, until the terrorists are routed and totally defeated. He commiserated with the families and churches that have lost loved their ones, members and places of worship during the Sunday attacks.