The Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu, on Thursday, called for peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.
Shehu spoke during Eid-el-Fitr homage to Governor Muhammadu Yahaya at the Gombe State Government House.
He said, “We are here, like always, to pay Sallah homage, as well as register our support to the government, because both the government and the Emir work for the people.
“Whenever we have an opportunity like this, we highlight some issues to promote the peaceful co-existence of the people in the land, as it concerns development in the state and the country as a whole.
“I always emphasise peaceful co-existence because there is no way any significant development will take place in the absence of peace. Here in Gombe State, we have made a name and progress because we live in peace. Peace can not be acquired just like that unless some sacrifices are carried out, like prayers, and government policies and programmes that will give the public confidence in the government.”
While emphasising the existence of collaboration between the emirate and government, adding that the governor consults him for state’s issues.
“These are things that are contributing to the peace in the state. Again, different tribes and religions are living in the state, but God has blessed us with peaceful co-existence and anytime any issue comes up, the governor always consults me on it so that we can discuss them to find solutions to them.
“Even shortly before the commencement of the Ramadan Fast, on the increase in prices of goods and services, the Governor and I discussed the issue and gave prayer points in every nook and cranny of the State, on how the state could live in peace, so that nothing ugly would spring up as a result of this.
“To God be the glory, the prayer has been answered, and peace is prevailing in the land. We thank the people of Gombe for obeying instructions given by the government. After the peaceful coexistence, the next thing is progress and development,” the Emir added.
Yahaya, on his part, commended the Emir for the collaboration and support of his administration.
He disclosed that his administration would do more to alleviate the suffering of the residents.
