The Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje has warned politicians against using religious centres to seek votes from electorate ahead of 2023 general election.
The governor said this on Thursday while declaring open the fourth National Inter-Religious Conference organised by the state government held at Coronation Hall, Kano.
Ganduje expressed worry over the use of religion by some political elites during the election process to divide the mutual relationship that existed between the people of faiths.
The theme of the conference was, “Harnessing Nigeria’s Religious Diversity for Sustainable Peace and National Development”.
Ganduje, therefore, challenged leaders of various faiths to close ranks in mutual understanding and dialogue to promote unity, peace and cohesion while de-emphasising issues of division.
Ganduje disclosed that the conference was motivated to strengthen interfaith dialogue for peace and unity and and build trust between people of both faith.
“The aim of the conference is to promote religious understanding in the society and enhance peace and unity in Nigeria. Sometimes, religion is used to instigate crisis and division. This is contrary to the tenets of both faiths.
“This is the reason why leadership of various religions should ensure mutual understanding and dialogue to prevent troubles before it escalates. We have to use the power of faith to deepen our unity and prevent those intended to be used for selfish interest”.
In his remarks, Chairman of the National Inter-Religious Conference, Dr. Mohammad Bin-Uthman, said religious leaders must tread the path of dignity of individual faith despite the differences.
