The activities of the radical Islamist sect – Boko Haram – and its mode of operation took the nation by surprise, President Goodluck Jonathan has revealed.
He made this revelation at the State House, Aso Villa, Abuja late Tuesday night while breaking fast with Muslim members of the diplomatic community.
The President expressed regrets that attacks by the sect had resulted in the death of innocent Nigerians including security operatives.
However, Mr. Jonathan noted that with the Federal Government’s commitment and prayers by Nigerians, the insurgency had been significantly brought under control.
The President expressed optimism that the Ramadan period had imbued the peoples of the world with compassion and forgiveness to enable them surmount the challenges of global conflicts and wars.
Citing the significance of Ramadan as stated in the Qur’an, President Jonathan noted that, “For all believers, the holy month of Ramadan is a time for reflection, self denial, spiritual rejuvenation and re-commitment to righteousness. It’s the time when people of the Muslim faith turn to their creator with a profound sense of piety, total submission and commitment to their faith.”
Speaking on behalf of the members, Cameroon’s Ambassador, Sallahdeen Ibrahim commended Jonathan for his continuous participation in the breaking of fast exercise and prayed God continue to guide him to provide good governance in Nigeria.
