Usman Bugaje, a former member of the House of Representatives, has cautioned against Nigeria’s separation.
He clarified that the country’s disintegration would exacerbate the country’s condition.
The former lawmaker said this at the 17th edition of the biennial Lagos Qur’an Competition, popularly known as ReciteLagos, which was organized by the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit in memory of the late Dr AbdulLateef Adegbite.
He urged Nigerians to put aside their differences and strive for the country’s growth.
He said, “There are a lot of things that are wrong in Nigeria – environmental issues and distribution of wealth. The idea of separation should not be for us. It is by coming together that we can be able to deliver on our mandate.
“Even if there are problems, we should be able to settle our differences and move on.”
On his part, Amir (president) of the MSSNLagos, Miftahudeen Thanni, said Nigeria’s challenges are surmountable.
He said that the competition’s theme, “Qur’an, the Making of a Great Country,” was chosen to emphasize the importance of divine presence in Nigerian administration.
“Obviously, divine interference in the affairs of the country is required,” he added.
Mr Tunde Folawiyo, the event’s chairman, praised the organizers for inspiring young people to read the Qur’an.
During the gathering, which was presided over by the Sultan of Sokoto as the Spiritual Father, seventeen reciters emerged as champions in different categories.
While AbdulQuadri Atukale emerged winner in the Juz 20 category, Abdussalaam Aliyy won the first position in the 10 Juz and 12-year-old Bashir Tukur put up a sterling performance to come first in the keenly contested Juz three category.
One of the winners 12-year-old Bashir Tukur noted that he was impressed with the impartiality of the judges, saying, “This has given me so much exposure. I am glad that I participated. I feel very happy.”
