Osun Peaceful Co-existence, Role Model to Other States, Says Gowon

Former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has described Osun State as a role model to other states in the country in terms of peaceful co-existence among the people irrespective of their religious differences.

The ex-leader, who arrived the state since Saturday for Nigeria Prays meeting, led a prayer session for the country through the Nigeria Prays Movement with a view of achieving a peaceful, secure and more united Nigeria.

He described as amazing the way and manner he found the good people of Osun State living together in peace and harmony and playing their roles well with prayer and unity for the good of the state, the country and mankind.

Specifically, he said, he was delighted the governor, who is a Muslim, agreed to host him during the Muslim festive period, a gesture the ex-leader noted, others would have politely turned down on the ground that it was a Sallah period.

Expressing satisfaction with the level of understanding and tolerance for one another in the state despite differences in religious beliefs, Gowon maintained that other states and even Nigeria as a country must imbibe such attributes.

He said among the states in the South-west that he and his Nigeria Prays Movement team had visited, Osun State stands out in all ramifications, confessing an increase in his love for Osun. He appreciated God for blessing the state with the governor who believes in the efficacy of prayers.

He maintained that Nigerians need to develop a sense of unity, love and respect for one another, adding that his greatest wish is for Nigeria to continue to dwell in unity and peace.

He thanked the governor for the warm reception given him and prayed God to support him in his determination to take the state to greater heights.