President Bola Ahmed Tinubu told clerics yesterday to refrain from condemning and cursing Nigeria in their sermons.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu urged them to tell their congregations Nigeria is the only country they have.
Speaking during Ramadan Iftar with monarchs and religious leaders at the State House in Abuja, the President emphasised the important role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.
The President also urged the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of holders of elective positions.
His words: ‘” Yesterday (Wednesday) in Abuja, I attended the burial of 17 officers and men of the Nigerian Army killed in action at Okuama, Delta State. I saw their pregnant wives and little kids.
“The love of the nation is in your hands. Pray for our country. Educate our children. The sermons we preach to the members of our churches and mosques are important.
“Do not condemn your nation. As a Yoruba man, our fathers will say, ‘No matter how slippery the bottom of your child is, you must leave the beads there.’
“Leave the beads there. This is your country; do not condemn it in sermons, do not abuse the nation. Leadership is meant for change.
“Yes, this leader is bad, fine. Wait until the next election to change him but do not condemn your country. Do not curse Nigeria. This is a beautiful land.”
