By Usman Abubakar Maiduguri
Amidst a frightening resurgence of terror activities across Borno State in recent months, residents of the state resolved to observe a voluntary fast, Monday, May 19 to beseech God for His intervention.
Over the recent months scores of troops and an unspecified number of civilians have been killed by Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters in Marte, Gwoza and Damboa axis of the state, in a terror resurgence fairly reminiscent of 2013 – 2017 period.
Consequently, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of the state, in a statewide broadcast, Sunday, May 18, called on the residents of the state to observe a voluntary fast on Monday.
Zulum noted that the spiritual act of seeking devine intervention would strengthen the unity and renew the resilience of the people.
“In light of our current security challenges, I am calling on all residents of Borno State to unite in a collective act of faith and solidarity,” he appealed.
Zulum peaked his plea: “This Monday, I am inviting you to join me in a voluntary day of fasting and prayer for peace to reign in Borno State, the Northeast and indeed the entire country,” explaining, “Let us come together to seek divine guidance, healing, and peace for our state.”
The governor observed: “Fasting is more than a personal spiritual act; it is a communal expression of our shared hope. Through prayer and reflection, we can strengthen our unity, renew our resilience, and restore our collective purpose”.
He appealed to every resident of the state to participate fully in this day of fasting,” saying, “Let us pray for the safety of our families, the progress of our communities, and the lasting peace in our state and the country at large.”
The governor commiserated with members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who lost their lives in the course of discharging their duties and prayed for their families to bear the irreparable loss.
