Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi has urged Nigerians to repent and intensify prayers to end the worsening insecurity bedevilling Nigeria.

Mr Bagudu made the appeal at a dinner organised to celebrate ‘Kebbi @ 31’ held at the Presidential Lodge, Birnin Kebbi, on Saturday.

At the dinner, organised by the Kebbi government, clerics from different Islamic sects preached and offered special prayers for the restoration of peace across Nigeria.

Mr Bagudu, represented by Babale Umar-Yauri, the secretary to the state government (SSG), said Kebbi decided to celebrate the 31st anniversary differently.

“We decided to invite Ulamas to preach to us, remind us about almighty God and pray for peace to reign across Nigeria,” he said.

The governor lamented that banditry, rape and kidnapping were alien vices infiltrated into Nigeria, assuring that they would soon be a thing of the past with prayers.

He observed that the herculean task leaders faced was something people should pity them for, hence the need for people to understand that the work “is not as easy as one thinks.”

While appreciating the Ulamas for their contribution to the state’s success, Mr Bagudu also appealed to them to sustain the tempo.

Several Islamic clerics who preached at the event reminded the public and leaders of the need to be mindful of their responsibilities.

The clerics included Sheikh Abbas Muhammad-Jega, represented by Sheikh Usman Adam-Jega, Sheikh Umar Malisa, represented by Sheikh Tijjani Muhammad, Sheikh Basiru Musa and Sheikh Abdur-Rahman Isa-Jega.

(NAN)