Two religious bodies in Adamawa State, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Muslim Council have pledged to foster peaceful coexistence and promote interfaith collaboration in the best interest of the state.
This was the central discussion between the two religious body as the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) paid courtesy visit to the leadership of the State Muslim Council recently.
While stating the purpose of their visit the state CAN Chairman Rev. Dr. Joel Danjuma Manzo, who led CAN delegation revealed that the visit was geared towards fostering understanding between the two outstanding faith in the state.
The visit he added was aimed at recognizing the richness, diversity and strength that lies in shared humanity as created by God.
“I believe that this courtesy visit marks new beginning of a new chapter in our relationship. One that is build on trust, respect and on a shared commitment to the common good of our people in the state”.
As Christians, we believe that when we genuinely work together we can build bridges of understanding that will promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence between the two religious faith”.
Rev. Manzo, appreciated the vital role Muslim Council played in promoting the values of coexistence and expressed commitment of service to both faith and the state in general.
According to him CAN is ready to supporting and collaborating with the Muslim Council in areas of interfaith dialogue, combating extremism and advocating for the right and dignity of all citizens.
In his response the State Chairman of the state Muslim Council Alhaji Gambo Jika, stated that as religious leaders they must be a shining example to their followers, pointing out that by doing so their followers will do likewise and the state will be even more peaceful.
He promised to collaborate with CAN in order to foster harmonious relationship and ensure peaceful coexistence.
He acknowledged the efforts of the Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, to unite both the Christian and Muslim bodies, saying that the two bodies have no reason not to advocate peace, unity and strengthened ties that will further deepened relationship between their followers.
He stressed that incase of any issue that may arise between the two bodies, as leaders they should be able to first and foremost communicate and understand each other, noting that communication is key in resolving and reaching understanding on any matter.
He stressed that as leaders they must be weary of people who don’t want peace must of whom specialise on using the social media as a tool to actualize their intentions.
He maintained that the two religious bodies must fine a way of dealing with with such bad eggs to avoid their inactions that are capable of disrupting exiting peace in the society.
He cautioned politicians and members of the public to be conscious and deliberately guide against inflammatory words and statements especially that which concerns policies and programmes of Government geared towards progress and development of the state.
