By Bridget Ikyado
Dr Luka Panya-Baba, the Esu Karu and Chairman, Karu Local Government Traditional Council in Nasarawa State, says Nigerians must work collectively and rise above all negative tendencies.
The traditional ruler gave the advice during the 7th Karu Chiefdom Carol, organised by the Esu Karu and Gospel Youth Mission, held the Esu Karu, palace, in New Karu.
He said that the negativity in the country must be reversed towards a better nation.
“This moment will bring sober reflection to us, to recommit and rededicate our lives for a better nation.
“We are aware of the challenges of insecurity in form of kidnapping, banditry, brute force, killings, ritualism and spiritualism.
“There are vices that have almost overwhelmed our young men and women, ills that have bedeviled our society,” he added.
The Esu also urged Nigerians to recommit themselves to God and appreciate Him for all the positive things in the lives of the people.
“Thanksgiving is a moment by moment affairs, but once in a while we should gather to raise our voices to God; our gathering is not a mere ritual to sing and dance to God.
“Our desire is that this will provide an opportunity for us to as community of children of God and a nation, reflect on the goodness of God to us and to remind ourselves of the need to appreciate what God has done for us.
“Our desire is that this moment will help us redirect and dedicate our lives and continually renew our commitment to the praise and worship to God,” he said.
Panya-Baba said as children of God, everyone must make an attempt to have a turn around.
“I believe what we are doing today is one way we can effectively work towards a better society that will be on the pedestrians of changing the narratives of what this country is known for today,” the chief added.
He commended all participants for joining the cause for a better nation.
The Guest Speaker, Jonathan Majijo, President, Springs of Life Resource Centre, Abuja, spoke on the theme of the event, “And the Government shall be upon His shoulder.”
“Isaiah 9:6.For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
The cleric said leaders must have these qualities to be able to discharge their responsibilities.
“The leader must be God fearing and must come with counsel, he should have understanding of the plight of his people, he must be a model.
“He, who is coming to take over the reigns of Nigeria, must be a builder and be ready to build back the fallen walls, “repair bridges and bring back hope to the people and make the economy of Nigerians one to beckon with other nations,” Majijo said.
The GYM leader, Mr Paul Solomon, said the carol was meant to foster peace and unity across all segments of the society.
“The family needs peace, our communities need peace, the nation needs peace and this is what we are doing.
“People of diverse culture, language, tradition from far and near have come together to celebrate and it promotes peace and togetherness,” Solomon said.
NAN reports that at the sideline of the event was a medical outreach for patients.
Evangelist Mrs Rahab Gideon-Dogo, who led the medical team, said serious cases were referred to the General Hospital in Karu.
She advised the people to take the issue of their health seriously, as it was necessary for good living and service to God and humanity.
The event was attended by tradition rulers, religious leaders, and people from all walks of life. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)