Religious leaders in Kebbi State have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to declare a national day of prayer and fasting, seeking divine intervention to end the rising wave of banditry across Northern Nigeria.
The call was made during a special interfaith prayer session held on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi. The event, convened by the state government under Governor Nasir Idris, formed part of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity through both spiritual engagement and coordinated security strategies.
It marked the fifth in a series of statewide prayer sessions that have drawn together notable Islamic and Christian leaders across sects and denominations — a reflection of unity of purpose in the fight against insecurity.
Governor Idris, addressing the congregation, reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore lasting peace and stability. He noted that the participation of both Muslims and Christians underscored Nigeria’s strength in diversity and the shared desire for peace.
“When we come together to pray and act as one people, we reinforce our collective commitment to peace, justice, and security,” the governor said, urging communities across the state to sustain local prayer efforts.
Leading the Muslim prayers were Sheikh Abdulrahaman Isah Jega, Sheikh Abbas Muhammadu Jega, Sheikh Umar Malisa, and Sheikh Abubakar Ribah. The Christian session was led by the Vice Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kebbi, Rev. Femi Oropin, alongside Rev. Nuhu Mamman Gudul, Rev. Joshua Ochimana, and Justice (rtd.) Mairiga.
The clerics jointly commended Governor Idris for his “unwavering commitment” to combating banditry within Kebbi and neighbouring states. They praised his engagements with regional stakeholders, including the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, the Progressive Governors Forum, and the Kebbi Elders Consultative Forum, in coordinating security strategies.
To further enhance security operations, the governor’s administration has distributed 100 Hilux patrol vehicles and 5,000 motorcycles to security agencies, aimed at boosting surveillance and rapid response efforts in vulnerable communities.
In a joint resolution, the religious leaders urged President Tinubu to spearhead a nationwide interfaith prayer, stressing that the battle against insecurity required not only government action but also divine intervention.
“Security is not the responsibility of government alone. It demands the hand of God and the unity of all Nigerians,” the clerics declared.
