The Trade Union Congress (TUC), on Wednesday, said religion is a cardinal factor and instrumental to some major crises that have so far claimed thousands of lives in the country.
The congress also pointed out that the lackadaisical attitude of Nigerian leaders has led to the loss of lives and economic doldrums, adding that the vicious circle the nation found itself must stop immediately.
In its Eid-el-Kabir message titled: “Love is a virtue, shun evil,” the congress regretted that while the world can attest that Nigerians are a religious people, “they also know that the same religion is a cardinal factor and instrumental to some major crises that have so far claimed thousands of lives.”
According to the President of TUC, Comrade Quadri Olaleye, “this makes us look unserious and hypocritical before the international community.”
He said: “There is scarcely any person in position of leadership today in the country who is neither a Christian, Muslim nor traditional worshipper. No religion preaches hatred, killings, thuggery, embezzlement, etc. and these are things that have threatened our collective existence. If our narrative must change, politicians, traditional rulers, youths, religious leaders have a role to play.”
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The TUC president felicitated with all Nigerians, especially the Muslims brothers and sisters on the special occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, adding that this should afford everyone the opportunity to work to fulfil their allegiance to God which of course is the very essence of the celebration.
According to him, it takes self-discipline to love and remain faithfulness, adding that it is a sacrifice.
He said: “This is not the best of times for us as a country, so spiritual exercises such as this is central to reconnect us to Allah. It is imperative at this stage to submit ourselves to the will of Allah and give our total allegiance to the country. We can only overcome our prevailing challenges if we consider it very necessary. Yes, we have a role to play. We expect the celebration to humble every Muslim in particular and Nigerians in general in their service to Allah, and humanity.
“Let us reflect and allow this year’s Eid-el-kabir to impact us. We must understand that our purpose in life is to do our Creator’s will and impact lives. Let us take advantage of the celebration to tolerate ourselves and chart a new course for the country. This lackadaisical attitude of leaders has not only led to loss of lives but it has also led to economic doldrums. This vicious circle must stop now.
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