As Christians gathered to pray for him to succeed as the incoming Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, has urged Nigerians to break free from the religious trap set by politicians who are subterfuge.
He made this call on Sunday during a inauguration service held in his honor at the St. Michael Catholic Cathedral Church in Minna saying “unfortunately our leaders have failed in the past and have condescended to religious issues in Nigeria”.
Bago expressed his concerns over the exploitation of religion by politicians and called for a departure from such practices for the progress and advancement of the country.
The governor-elect urged Nigerians to set aside religious sentiments, as hardships and insecurity do not discriminate based on religion.
“It’s high time we come out of this trap and leave religious sentiments because hardships and insecurity don’t care about religion”.
He criticized previous leaders for succumbing to religious issues, using religion as a cover for their shortcomings.
Bago assured that his administration would not discriminate against any faith and would refrain from using religion to hinder policy implementation.
He emphasized his commitment to fair treatment for all religious groups within the state.
In his address, Yohanna Bulus, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, reminded the governor-elect of his responsibility to govern with justice and fairness, emphasizing that he represents all religious groups in the state.
He encouraged Bago to seize this opportunity to leave a positive legacy, saying “I see your emergence as a ‘rejuvenation of hope’ for the people and our dear State.
“I believe your emergence is as ordained by God, because, He alone gives power to whoever he predestinates; and all we need to do as a people and the Body of Christ is to pray for our leaders to succeed just as the Book of 1 Timothy Chapter 2 Verse 1-3 tells us.
“You are a Governor to all and I urge you to make Nigerlites proud after your first four years and seize this opportunity to write your name in gold.”
Speaking earlier, the Bishop of Minna Diocese, Most Rev Dr Martins Uzoukwu charged politicians to love themselves, saying that “as from today something good and unique is coming to Niger State.”
Bishop Martins who was represented by the Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev Dr Sylvester Gupep during the homily described the Governor elect as a game changer especially haven gone through the rudiments of catholicism especially as a Mass Servant.