Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State has cautioned political parties against whipping religious sentiments during campaigns while canvassing for votes from the electorate ahead of the 2023 general election.
He made the call while declaring open the 4th National Inter-Religious Conference organised by the state government.
Ganduje, who spoke in Kano on Thursday, also urged strict adherence to a directive issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission that restricted political parties from campaigns at religious centres.
The Governor lamented about the use of religion by some political elites, especially during the election process, to divide the mutual relationship that exists between the people of faith.
He then challenged leaders of various faith to close rank in mutual understanding and dialogue to promote unity, peace and cohesion.
Ganduje said the theme: “Harnessing Nigeria’s Religious Diversity for Sustainable Peace and National Development,” was timely.
He added that the conference would promote religious understanding in the society and enhance peace and unity in Nigeria.
The Chairman of the National Inter-Religious Conference, Dr. Mohammad Bin-Uthman, said religious leaders must tread the path of dignity of individual’s faith in spite of the differences.
He added that harnessing and celebrating the diversity without violating the principle of individual’s faith is sacrosanct to national development.
The Co-Chair of the conference, Archbishop of Metropolitan, North Province, Peter Ogunmuyiwa, added that the plurality of faith was a blessing to Nigeria in spite of the efforts of some elements to capitalise on the differences to create tension.
Ogunmuyiwa called for constant interface and dialogue between Christian leaders and Muslim clergymen for better understanding and harmonious relationships in the country.
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