By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd) has called on Nigerians to uphold the sanctity of human life and put an end to unwarranted violence.
Reflecting on the painful experiences of the past, Gowon lamented, “It pains me so much that we have endured cycles of unfortunate incidents, killing one another regardless of our faiths. This must stop!”
He expressed deep concern over the ongoing crises facing Nigeria: “After the civil war, I prayed to God that we would never again experience the kind of suffering we endured during that period. Yet, here we are with unrest in various forms. I urge young people, particularly those who may have contributed to the challenges, to turn their hearts to God. May He reform them and make them contributors to peace and unity in Nigeria.
Gowon made this urgent appeal on Friday during the official opening of the maiden edition of the three-day interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival in Plateau State, held at the Ten Commandments Prayer Alter in Du, Jos South LGA.
He emphasized the significance of the occasion, reminding attendees about the peace that Jesus Christ brings.
“The Christmas season is a time for unity and reflection, and I hope we carry this message of peace and faith to our homes, throughout Plateau State, and beyond”.
“I want to ensure peace in Plateau. All of you—Nigerians and the people of Plateau—whether you are Christian or Muslim, should understand this.” He stated.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang also expressed optimism about Plateau’s divine prophetic destiny and advocated for unity among diverse religious and ethnic groups.
“By the grace of God, we are on a journey to fulfilling the prophetic destiny of Plateau’s faith. For far too long, we have fought many battles, waging war against ourselves and opening the floodgates for others to attack us. But the time has come, and the time is now, for us to unite as a people—united in purpose, determined to harness the God-given grace bestowed upon our land.”
Mutfwang highlighted the blessings of Plateau, stating, “This is a land of blessing, a land ordained by God to be a blessing to other nations. God has not only enriched Plateau with mineral deposits but has also blessed its soil with fertility. Therefore, it ought not to be said that Plateau is among the poorest in Nigeria. By divine destiny, Plateau stands as a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden.”
“Through God’s grace, we will reach that promised land. Though giants may rise to hinder us, God will take us there. If we are to unite Plateau, there is no better starting point than within the household of faith. Together, we must come under one banner, one God, one church, and one faith. This gathering lays the foundation for a greater vision of ourselves, urging us to stop seeing ourselves as grasshoppers but instead as God sees us—a people of promise, greatness, and purpose.” He added.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including former President General Olusegun Obasanjo (retd), former Plateau Governors Senator Joshua Dariye and Senator Jonah Jang, former Adamawa Governor Boni Haruna, Professor Jerry Gana, Professor Mary Lar, Senators Istifanus Gyang and Simon Mwakwon, along with various religious and traditional leaders.
