Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano State has cautioned political parties from whipping up religious sentiments during campaign while seeking votes from the electorates ahead of 2023 general elections.
Besides, Ganduje urged strict adherence to a directive issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that restricts political parties from tactical campaigns at religious centres.
Declaring open the fourth National Inter-Religious Conference organised by the state government, Ganduje expressed worry over the use of religion by some political elite, especially during electioneering to destroy the mutual relationship that exists between the people of different faiths.
Ganduje who challenged leaders of various faiths to close rank in mutual understanding and dialogue to promote unity, peace and cohesion while deemphasizing on issues of division. He maintained that only such a platform would enhance development and prevent needless crises among the two major faiths.
With the theme: “ Harnessing Nigeria’s Religious Diversity for Sustainable Peace and National Development”, Ganduje disclosed that the conference was motivated to strengthen interfaith dialogue for peace and unity and build trust between people of both faiths.
The chairman of the National Inter-Religious Conference, Dr. Mohammad Bin-Uthman said religious leaders must trend the path of dignity of individual faith despite the differences. He added that harnessing and celebrating our diversity without violating the principle of individual faiths is sacrosanct to national development.
The co-chair of the conference, Archbishop of Metropolitan, North Province, Peter Ogunmuyiwa added that the plurality of faiths is blessing to Nigeria despite the efforts of some elements to capitalize on the differences to create tension.
He called for constant interface and dialogue between Christian leaders and Muslims clergy for better understanding and harmonious relationship in the country.
