In an easter message mixed with the call for hope, endurance, peace, promises, and despair, Senate President Ahmad Lawan has blamed religion for complicating the task of making Nigeria great.

“Building a great nation requires sacrifice, endurance, and hope. This is especially true in our own case, where diversity in tongues and faiths make the task complex,” said Mr Lawan in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ola Awoniyi, in Abuja.

A 2012 survey by the Pew Research Centre’s Forum on Religion and Public Life estimated the country’s population to be 49.3 per cent Christian and 48.8 per cent Muslim, while the remaining two per cent belonged to other or no religions.

Many individuals, however, combine indigenous beliefs and practices with Islam or Christianity.

While felicitating with Christian faithful on Thursday, ahead of the Easter holidays, which begin on Friday, Mr Lawan saw diversity in “tongues” and “faiths” as a stumbling block in the nation’s attempt to achieve greatness.

Before now, the country’s political leaders had touted the country’s diverse ethnic groups and opposing religions as a strength rather than a weakness.

Though seeing religion as an issue regarding the country becoming great, Mr Lawan noted that Easter was one of the most important events in the Christian calendar designed to celebrate the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

He urged Nigerians to use the occasion to preach religious tolerance, love for neighbours, and commitment to civic responsibilities.

However, his despair was complemented with the thoughts of hope and promise.

“But with abiding hope in our manifest destiny of greatness, I believe we shall overcome the challenges and build the Nigeria of our dream,” said Mr Lawan. “Let us also continue to support the government in its efforts to provide security and an enabling environment for economic growth and prosperity.

The Senate president also used the opportunity to tout that the National Assembly is working on amending the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the PIB.

“Our various committees are currently working on the various proposals for amendment of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Reforms Act to mention just a few as well as the Petroleum Industry Bill,” he said.

Even though the Ninth National Assembly has been described by critics as being President Muhammadu Buhari’s rubberstamp, Mr Lawan stated, “The National Assembly will continue to work for the Nigerian people in this regard and their legitimate pursuit of peace, happiness, and prosperity in their beloved country.

“The Ninth Assembly has stayed focused on its legislative agenda and has been providing legislative support to government and its policies.”

(NAN)