Sultan Of Sokoto Applauds Gov Otu On Inter-Faith Harmony, Unity

BY UBON EKANEM, CALABAR – The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has commended Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State for his unwavering dedication in promoting inter-faith harmony and peaceful co-existence in the state and country.

The Royal Father, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the inter-faith Unity conference of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in Calabar, the Cross River capital, said the governor’s strides at fostering harmony among different tribes and faiths in the State are not only highly commendable but also worthy of emulation by Nigerians.

He said the governor’s steadfast commitment to unity and peace in the state and country is an important lesson for political leaders and well-meaning Nigerians, stressing that the government must also take responsibility in enhancing education to counter divisive narratives and tendencies.

The Sultan said since mounting the saddle, Gov Otu has continued to display true spirit of a nationalist both in words and in action, adding that prior to his visiting the state, he has been informed of the rare display of the spirit of love and deliberate promotion of a sense of oneness in the state irrespective of race , tribe and religion.

The eminent traditional and religious leader urged the governor to remain focused on the path of promoting peace among Nigerians as the unity of the country should be top priority for all patriotic Nigerians.

In his remarks, Governor Bassey Edet Otu stressed the importance of harmonious co-existence among Nigerians, as such effort would bring about unity, peace and even the much-needed development across the country.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a two-day Inter-Faith Unity conference of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in Calabar, Governor Otu said having existed as an independent nation for 64 years, Nigerians should focus more on national unity by striving to promote ideals that would further strengthen our diverse culture into a strong bond of co-existence.

In his words; “The people of cross River are unique as we hardly attach ethnic coloration to any one as long as long every body remains law abiding, and most importantly the culture and tradition of the land are not trampled upon with impunity”

Stressing the significance of harmony in establishing a sense of belonging, he urged those contemplating secession or the dissolution of Nigeria as a unified entity to discard such notions as Nigeria’s unity is indissoluble, even as he noted thus; “There are several families in Cross River that have prospered through cross-tribal and inter-faith unions.”

For him, hosting the event in Cross River is a blessing for all residents of the State, maintaining that; “Interfaith collaboration is indispensable in today’s Nigeria. The obstacles we encounter arise from division, lack of comprehension, and an inability to embrace one another.

“In Cross River, everyone is embraced. It is imperative to remind individuals that we come into this world with nothing and depart with nothing. We must strive to be supportive of one another. Advancement can only be attained in a united, just, and harmonious nation”

He also said his administration will not relent in consciously promoting the virtues of communal co-existence by appointing people of diverse culture, tribe and religion to ensure that nobody feels alienated in the scheme of things.

Gov Otu maintained that in keeping with his administration’s philosophy of people first agenda, he stays  committed to ensuring no law abiding resident in the state is discriminated against based on tribe and religion.

He appreciated the Sultan of Sokoto for always playing a fatherly role on issues of national importance, assuring him that the safety and security of the Muslim faithfuls in the state are at all times guaranteed.

Gracing the event were prominent Muslim faithfuls, top government functionaries, including the State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem; and representatives of the Obong of Calabar, His Royal Highness, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) among other dignitaries.