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In light of the current diplomatic crisis between Nigeria and the US over allegations of religious bias and human rights breaches, the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Yusuf Atah, has urged Nigerians to keep calm, pray, and stand together.
A statement was released on Saturday in Kano by the minister’s aide, Seyi Olorunsola, which featured the minister’s request.
The minister allegedly told reporters this at Aminu Kano International Airport after returning from the Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia, as stated in the statement.
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Atah pleaded with Nigerians, particularly those in the north, to remain silent and not do anything that would escalate the crisis.
The minister emphasised the importance of being united as a nation and warned against being divided by outside narratives or political interpretations.
“The diversity of Nigerians and their capacity to triumph over adversity through mutual respect, prayer, and understanding have always been the country’s greatest assets.”
Concerned that remarks being circulated both domestically and abroad would exacerbate divides if not handled appropriately, he voiced his worry.
Instead of reacting angrily, he urged Nigerians to exercise prudence and composure.
He urged Northern Nigerians to refrain from making provocative or inflammatory remarks that could exacerbate the fragile peace in some regions of the country and urged against further escalating tensions through speech or action.
Unite, do not divide; now is the moment. As our authorities strive to address these difficulties, we must maintain our vigilance in prayer.
Instead of spreading stories that divide the country, the minister urged Christian and Islamic religious leaders to work towards unity and peace.
Ayatullah emphasised the importance of wise leadership among our religious leaders and urged them to pray for unity, progress, peace, and wisdom.
“Our support and goodwill are needed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he commits to guiding the country through these difficult times.”
Noting that Nigeria had consistently come out stronger after facing adversity, Atah reassured the President of the support and allegiance of the Northern people.
You should not be disheartened at this moment. The moment has come for Nigerians to have faith in their government once more, to lift up their leaders in prayer, and to unite in their pursuit of national unity and prosperity.