Eid-el-Fitr: Buhari preaches political, religious tolerance •Turkish President greets Nigerian Muslims

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has stressed the need for Nigerians to demonstrate the virtue of tolerance towards one another irrespective of religion, language and political leanings.

In his Eid-el-Fitr message to Nigerians released in Abuja on Tuesday, he said he was aware of  what the people were going through and promised that there were better days ahead.

“Let us learn to show gratitude, respect and tolerance to one other, irrespective of our religion, tribe, language and political leanings, as we forge ahead to build on our strengths and opportunities to make Nigeria great again,” he said.

The president added: “I am not unaware of what Nigerians are going through and I want to use this medium to commend the amazing sacrifices of Nigerians in the face of the temporary economic and social challenges and also reassure Nigerians that my administration is working assiduously towards providing basic needs and other amenities.

“Let me also use this opportunity to reaffirm that we will not relent in the fight against corruption and we will ensure that all appropriate and legal measures are deplored to root out this malaise.
“I commend the Armed Forces and security agencies for the gains recorded in the fight against terrorists and the rescue of hostages in the North East part of the country.”

Recalling that he hosted Iftar reception with Nigerians of different backgrounds including Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), artisans and Physically-challenged persons, the president appealed to the wealthy to remember the millions of Nigerians “who are suffering deprivation because of violence perpetrated by terrorists.”

Buhari also appealed for the support, understanding and patience of all Nigerians and the international partners as his government explored “the fastest means to end the economic sabotage in the Niger Delta and amicably resolve the conflicts within the region,” saying: “I promise you all better days ahead even as we remain grateful for your unflinching support to our administration.”

While praying for Allah’s blessing on the nation, he felicitated with all Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah, on the occasion of this year’s Eid El Fitr, which marks the completion of the Ramadan fast.

He congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and around the world on the successful completion of the month-long spiritual journey of fasting, prayer and almsgiving in obedience to the Divine Command.
He prayed that the Almighty Allah will reward our sacrifices with increased blessing and a more prosperous future.

According to him, “On this happy occasion, it is my strong belief that all true followers of Islam have been rejuvenated on the true meaning and essence of life and through the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), we have learnt to imbibe the virtues of piety, sacrifice, love, self-denial and good conduct in our daily relationship with one another.

“As we celebrate another Eid El Fitr, I admonish all patriotic Nigerians to uphold these lessons and also appreciate the numerous material and human blessings God has endowed us with.”

Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has felicitated with Muslims in Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Fitr.

In a telephone conversation with President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, Erdogan rejoiced with Nigerians on the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan fast despite whatever distractions.