The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders’ Association of Nigeria MACBAN has on Wednesday hailed the South-East governors for their commitment to the unity of the country.
Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, the zonal chairman of the association, stated this in his Christmas message in Awka, the Anambra State capital.
He said, “ While thanking God for His mercies on this day, we immensely appreciate the governors of the five South-Eastern states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo for the bold expressions of their belief in one Nigeria.”
He added that the governors had created the environment where Nigerians could be at liberty to legitimately do their business without undue bottlenecks despite their places of origin or creed.
Siddiki said, “ We also appreciate the governors for individually and collectively accommodating our members in their states and for listening to them, particularly at very trying moments this year when the unruly activities of criminals tended to lead to a blanket demonisation of herdsmen. ”
He asked his members and other Muslims to extend Christmas greetings to Christians in their host communities and to always maintain a cordial relationship with them.
Siddiki said identifying with non-Muslims during their ceremonies was in keeping with the noble ideals and teaching of Prophet Muhammed.
“ Islam has acknowledged the principle of peaceful coexistence with all people, regardless of their faith. Islam instructs Muslims all over the world to love their neighbours, ” Sadiki said.
He commended the traditional rulers, religious leaders, the national body of MACBAN, the Nigeria Police Force and other stakeholders for their commitment towards a harmonious coexistence between herders and their host communities in the geopolitical zone.
He said members of MACBAN in the South – East was optimistic of greater understanding and enhanced peace in the area.
He commiserated with families whose loved ones were killed or wounded during the year by the “ rascality of vandals, robbers, kidnappers and other criminals. ”
Nwada Ugochinyere Onyechere reporting Obinwannem News
