By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, has urged Nigerians to make peaceful coexistence their priority to ensure unity.
Ogundiya gave the advice during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Ibadan.
He said prioritising harmonious coexistence and understanding would allow citizens to enjoy the nation’s God-given resources together.
Ogundiya added that harmonious coexistence would promote national unity, peace and love among Nigerians.
He also encouraged inter-tribal marriages to strengthen unity.
Ogundiya advocated re-integrating civic education into the school curriculum to foster unity and acceptance among Nigerians.
He called for true federalism where every citizen would feel accepted at home and in any part of the country.
He also urged Nigerians to prioritise patriotism over party politics.
“Let there be no division via political party participation; patriotism should be every citizen’s watchword,” he said.
On religion, he emphasised the need for maturity, urging religious leaders to be non-partisan and serve as guardians of the government.
Ogundiya said the government should in turn, remain fair to all religions.
“Since Nigeria is a multi religious society with people being conscious religiously, there should be maturity in the part of religious leaders.
“The government should also be fair to all religions.
“The nation’s challenges require a more proactive action through palliative care for the masses to cushion the effect of hardship and make life a bit more comfortable for citizens.
“Like in the biblical days, religious leaders were priests and prophets who guide the ruling group in the way and fear of God.
“The same should also be done today in the fear of God. There should be good synergy between governments and religious leaders to make more progress,” Ogundiya said.
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