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By Correspondent in Minna.
The Niger State Governor, Hon. Mohammed Umar Bago, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring the hitherto long-standing culture of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Christians, Muslims and adherents of other faiths in the state.
The governor gave the assurance during the inauguration of the newly elected executive of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Niger State chapter in Minna on Thursday.
Represented at the event by the Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barrister Maurice Bello Magaji, Governor Bago described recent attacks, reportedly targeted largely at Christians, as “deeply unfortunate” and a setback to the state’s cherished history of interfaith harmony.
He said the government was already taking concrete steps to reclaim the atmosphere of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence once enjoyed by citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
According to him, while security measures often begin with kinetic actions, it is regrettable that some individuals, under the guise of promoting religion, infringe on the fundamental rights and freedom of others to practice their faith.
“There was a time in Niger State when Christians and Muslims lived together in the same homes as one big family. Sadly, religious radicalism, intolerance and lack of love have eroded that unity,”Governor Bago recalled
He stressed that no society can achieve meaningful development without tolerance, assuring Christians and other religious groups in the state of his administration’s determination to restore an environment where all citizens can freely practice their faith without fear of harassment or molestation.
In his remarks, the PFN Vice President, Prophet Isa El-Buba, who inaugurated the new state executive, charged the leaders to work in unity, noting that teamwork is essential for meaningful impact.
He reminded them that spiritual leaders must lead by example, cautioning against assuming the posture of “lords or masters” over the flock entrusted to their care.
The newly inaugurated PFN State Chairman, Pastor PeteRock Sadiq,who is also the Resident Pastor of House on the Rock Church, Minna, pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor, Pastor Aloy Morka, and to promote unity within the Christian community and beyond.
Other members of the new PFN Niger State executive include Rev. Remi Folorunsho (Deputy Chairman), Rev. Charles Nwabudu (Secretary), Rev. Thomas Adama (Treasurer), and Rev. Sarah Akinoluwatunde, the only female member of the ten-man executive, who will serve as Welfare Officer.
Edited by Dada Ahmed
