The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has felicitated Muslim faithful across the country on the occasion of Eid-el-Adha, urging Nigerians to uphold the virtues of sacrifice, peace, love and national unity.
This is contained in a sallah message jointly signed its Chairman, Akeem Abas and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, and made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Ibadan.
The council called on Muslims to use the celebration to pray fervently for the peace, stability and progress of Nigeria amid prevailing economic and security challenges.
The council particularly appealed to Nigerians not to forget the abducted schoolchildren, teachers and other victims kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and other parts of the country.
Oyo NUJ described the abduction of innocent pupils and teachers in the Ogbomoso axis as a dangerous threat to the nation’s educational system and collective future.
It said the disturbing attacks on schools and communities had heightened fear among parents and residents, stressing that no society could develop under an atmosphere of insecurity and terror.
The union urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all abducted victims, while also strengthening surveillance across vulnerable communities, forests and highways in the country.
Oyo NUJ also called on the government and relevant authorities to adopt more proactive security measures capable of preventing recurring attacks on schools and rural communities.
According to the council, the increasing wave of kidnappings and violent attacks requires urgent, coordinated and intelligence-driven responses from all security stakeholders.
The union further appealed to Nigerians, especially journalists, to continue supporting efforts aimed at promoting peace, national cohesion and responsible information dissemination during the festive period.
It charged media professionals to remain committed to ethical journalism and constructive reportage capable of fostering hope, unity and public confidence in the nation.
The council prayed for divine intervention in the country’s affairs and expressed hope that the Eid-el-Adha celebration would usher in renewed peace, security and prosperity for all Nigerians.
It also prayed for the quick release of all abducted Nigerians and comfort for families affected by insecurity across the country.
