By Samuel Ike, Abuja

The Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) has congratulated Muslim faithful across Nigeria and beyond on the occasion of Eid-ul-Mawlid, which commemorates the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Assistant Commander General and National Public Relations Officer, Igho Akeregha, the organisation described the celebration as a time for spiritual reflection and a reminder of the values of peace, compassion, justice, discipline, tolerance and service to humanity.

The VGN urged Muslims and all Nigerians to use the occasion to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence, national unity and community security, stressing that security is a collective responsibility that requires the cooperation of citizens, traditional institutions, religious leaders and security agencies.

According to the statement, the Commander General of the VGN, Otunba James Udoma, called on Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech, criminality, extremism and all actions capable of threatening the peace and stability of the country. He noted that the protection of lives and property can only be achieved through responsible citizenship, mutual respect and cooperation with constituted authorities.

The organisation also advocated the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic values, urging citizens to uphold the rule of law, constitutional governance, fundamental rights and the peaceful resolution of differences. It added that democracy thrives where tolerance, accountability, responsible participation and respect for divergent views are embraced.

Highlighting its nationwide presence, the VGN stated that it has about one million members spread across communities in the 774 local government areas of the country, where they provide grassroots intelligence and complementary security support to conventional security agencies. The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of peace, security, economic development, youth empowerment and social stability.

Akeregha charged VGN personnel nationwide to remain professional, disciplined, non partisan and community oriented while respecting human rights and operating within the law. The organisation congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration and prayed for peace, security, prosperity and divine guidance for Nigeria, while calling for continued prayers for the nation’s leaders, security agencies and citizens.