President Muhammadu Buhari said that recent rise in banditry, kidnappings and other violent crimes in the country, shook him, but assured the nation that the killers would be defeated ultimately.
He stated that security agencies had been given the necessary support to end the killings, which the President admitted was a trying phase that would pass away.
Buhari raised his concerns in an Easter message he released in Abuja.
In the message, which he personally signed, the President rejoiced with Christians, urging all to use this auspicious season to show love to our neighbors, and cater to the needs of the less-privileged in our midst, a lifestyle exemplified by Jesus Christ.
On the security challenges, he stated that our nation is currently gripped with gloom over unfortunate killings, kidnappings, and violence, as seen in the recent tragic incidents in some states of the federation.
He also noted that they must reinforce the bond of brotherhood and good neighborliness that citizens of a cohesive country must share and that they must not allow the few bad elements in our communities to put asunder our communal tendencies and chords of unity.
In his message, President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, urged Nigerians to imbibe the value of sacrificing in the interest of the country as demonstrated by Jesus Christ.
He said Christ’s selfless service to humanity was being commemorated across the world at the Easter period. He stated this in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu.
Saraki congratulated Christian faithful in Nigeria and across the world as they celebrate the Easter festivities and also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their steadfastness and prayers which he said, had an immense impact on the peace, unity and continued survival of the nation.
He noted that the successful conduct of the 2019 general elections was a direct testament to the sincere efforts and prayers of all Nigerians. He urged everyone to also strive to bequeath a legacy of peace and selflessness to the coming generations, as did Jesus Christ.