Luka Panya-Baba, the Esu Karu and chairman of the Karu Local Government Traditional Council in Nasarawa, says Nigerians must work collectively and rise above all negative tendencies.

The traditional ruler gave the advice during the seventh Karu Chiefdom Carol, organised by the Esu Karu and Gospel Youth Mission in New Karu.

He said the negativity in the country must be reversed towards a better nation.

“We are aware of the challenges of insecurity in the form of kidnapping, banditry, brute force, killings, ritualism, and spiritualism.

“There are vices that have almost overwhelmed our young men and women, ills that have bedeviled our society,” he added.

The Esu also urged Nigerians to recommit themselves to God and appreciate him for all the positive things in the people’s lives.

“Thanksgiving is a moment by moment affair, but once in a while we should gather to raise our voices to God; our gathering is not a mere ritual to sing and dance to God.

“Our desire is that this moment will help us redirect and dedicate our lives and continually renew our commitment to the praise and worship of God,” he said.

Mr Panya-Baba said as children of God, everyone must make an attempt to have a turnaround.

“I believe what we are doing today is one way we can effectively work towards a better society that will be on the pedestrians of changing the narratives of what this country is known for today,” the chief added.

The guest speaker, Jonathan Majijo, said leaders must have six qualities to be able to discharge their responsibilities.

“The leader must be God-fearing and must come with counsel, he should have an understanding of the plight of his people, he must be a model.

“He, who is coming to take over the reins of Nigeria, must be a builder and be ready to build back the fallen walls, repair bridges and bring back hope to the people and make the economy of Nigerians one to beckon with other nations,” Mr Majijo said.

(NAN)