Wike preaches peace, unity ahead of 2027 polls

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged residents of the FCT to sustain the virtues of compassion, forgiveness, peace and unity that Ramadan embodies.

Wike, who made the call in his Eid-el-Fitr message to FCT residents in Abuja on Thursday, described the sacred month of Ramadan as a “period of spiritual rejuvenation, self-reflection, and renewal”.

He said that the Eid-el-Fitr celebration offers a unique opportunity for FCT residents to pray for Nigeria’s leaders and the country for continued peace and progress.

“It was reassuring to see Muslims sharing and caring for fellow Muslims and non-Muslims alike in the last 30 days within the FCT.

“Individuals and corporate organisations have, by their conduct during this holy month, demonstrated their commitment and cooperation towards maintaining Abuja’s pride of place as the centre of unity, peace and harmony in Nigeria.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, let us continue to live together in peace, harmony, and unity.

“The security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that residents celebrate and enjoy the occasion in peace, tranquility and orderliness.

“I therefore enjoin all residents to go about their activities without fear or trepidation,” he said.

The Minister pointed out that campaigns were expected to begin nationwide in the coming weeks, ahead of Nigeria’s general elections in 2027.

He noted that being the centre of government, the FCT would witness a beehive of activities around this period.

“Be assured that the FCT Administration will continue to provide an environment conducive for the orderly hosting of all political events preceding and relating to the general elections.

“I urge all residents regardless of political affiliation, gender or tribe to take a cue from the Muslim Ummah, and maintain peaceful conduct throughout the year while praying for the FCT, and the nation as a whole at this period,” he said.

Wike commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, through which he has uplifted the socioeconomic fortunes of residents of the FCT and bolstered security in the nation’s capital.

“It is our prayer that the Almighty Allah will continue to uphold him,” he said.

He reiterated the FCT Administration’s commitment to securing lives and property, and developing the FCT into a world-class city.

“Once again, to our Muslim brothers and sisters, may Allah accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds, and grant us a blessed Eid.

“May we emerge stronger, more united, and more determined to build a prosperous FCT,” Wike said.

(NAN)