As the controversy surrounding comments credited to Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Ali Pantami, the Forum of Christian Bishops and Clergy Council have lauded President Muhammadu Buhari on his decision to ignore naysayers alleging that those behind the allegations were cabals affected by reforms championed by the Minister.
The Forum at a solidarity rally carrying placards with various inscriptions declared support for what they it described as President Buhari’s determination to keep the country united.
The group led by bishop Abel King while speaking at the rally said it became necessary for it to speak out in view of varying opinions expressed over the recent allegations levelled against the Hon Minister of Communications.
“Mr President through his decision to put the country first, has demonstrated the will to keep us united and not to be swayed by sentiments and outright blackmail” this is quite commendable, Bishop Abel maintained.
Recall there have been calls for the resignation of Dr Pantami, particularly along religious, political and ethnic lines, if Mr president did not show courage, the country would have lost one of the most brilliant public officers in his administration”
“We feel that this country should rise above sentiments if we must achieve the unity, peace and development we seek as a people.
“The idea of giving every national conversation a political and religious colouration must be discouraged at all cost”.
The group further cautioned against inflammatory statements that are capable of raising tensions among the masses.
“We can not correct the wrongs of the nation along religious and political permutations.
“If we look at the reforms in the ICT sector as led by the current administration under Dr Pantami, you will understand that Nigeria need more of such brilliant people in government, we must therefore resist the temptation to weaken the government using sentiments and politics.
“No doubt, the country losses more if we advance sentiments above facts and good reason”
“Let Nigeria win first, and we will not win by drumming war songs at every opportunity”
The group further said , as christians leaders they have embarked on the solidarity and peace walk to reinstate the need for national unity and moral support for leaders in the country.