As the annual Muslim Ramadan fast commences today, Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has condemned in strong terms, the spate of abduction of innocent school children by bandits in the country.
This is contained in a goodwill message to the Muslim Ummah on the commencement of the 2024 Ramadan fast of the Holy month of Ramadan.
The Governor called for collective efforts in finding new solutions to the security and socio-economic challenges facing the nation, acknowledging the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governors to address the current difficulties.
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The Northern Governors Forum Chairman used the occasion to express deep concern over the alarming increase in abductions of vulnerable citizens in some parts of the country, particularly making reference to the recent incidents involving students in Kaduna, internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno, and Almajiri pupils in Zamfara states.
He decried the impact of these abductions on the affected individuals and communities, emphasising the need for security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to bring those responsible to justice and to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.
He also called on citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security forces, and report any suspicious activities that could aid in preventing further incidents, emphasizing that a secure environment is essential for the overall development and prosperity of the nation.
Inuwa Yahaya urged the Muslim Ummah and the entire citizenry to utilize this sacred month for fervent prayers, seeking relief amid present economic hardships, and praying for peace, development, and prosperity of Gombe State and Nigeria at large.
He also assured citizens that these challenges will soon be overcome.
Expressing optimism in the power of prayers, commitment, and patriotism, the Governor believes that the nation will emerge stronger from its current challenges.
He said, Ramadan, as one of the five pillars of Islam, provides a golden opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and devotion through supplication and worship.
He urged clerics to emphasize peaceful coexistence, unity and piety during their Tafsir sessions and other Ta’alimat throughout the month-long fast and beyond.
Inuwa Yahaya particularly admonished the Muslim Ummah to embody the spirit and ideals of Ramadan and Islam in their lives by promoting peace, kindness, and obedience.
The NSGF Chairman called upon affluent ones in the society to extend acts of generosity to those in need.
He encouraged the people of the state to continue being law-abiding and safeguard the prevailing peaceful co-existence.
The Governor reassured the commitment of his government to continue to ensure peace, security, and the well-being of the people.
