As Christians begin this year's Lenten season, the Governor of Kwara State, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed has urged Christian faithful to use the occasion to pray fervently for the restoration of peace in the country, especially the North-East that has been under the throes of insurgents onslaught.

 Governor Ahmed in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba said the Lenten season calls for sober reflection on individual attitudes and national challenges in order to engender an egalitarian society.

 "Since the Lenten season in Christendom marks a period of sober reflection, fasting and penitence in anticipation of the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday, it is imperative that the season is also used for a deeper and sober reflection on the State of affairs in our country", he advised.

 Dr Ahmed also advised Christians and Nigerians of other faiths to use the Lenten season to pray and work fervently for the success of the forthcoming national conference and the 2015 General Elections.

According to the governor, "it is a known fact that no State or nation can develop in a state of anarchy or violence as resources and efforts directed towards containing violence and other forms of criminality could be properly channeled to the economic, industrial and infrastructural development of the country".

Governor Ahmed congratulated Christians for witnessing another month of spiritual dedication.