Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has generously distributed 39 vehicles to various religious organisations, including the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and numerous Islamic sects and Christian denominations. This significant donation aims to bolster their efforts in advocating for peaceful coexistence and ensuring the conduct of free and fair elections both within Kaduna State and across Nigeria.
Representing the Governor at the handover ceremony, Malam Tahir Umar Tahir, the Director General of Interfaith, highlighted concerns that certain politicians, anticipating defeat, are allegedly plotting to destabilise public peace before, during, or after the upcoming elections. This donation is intended to empower religious bodies to counteract such divisive agendas.
Meeting Requests For Peace-Building Resources
Malam Tahir recalled that the First Aid Group of Fityanul Islam had previously submitted a request for six buses to enhance its peace-building activities. This request was made during their national seminar and awards ceremony held in August. In response, Governor Uba Sani pledged to provide four buses to the group, allocating two for the national body and two for its Kaduna State chapter.
The Governor further committed to extending this support to the First Aid Groups of other Islamic sects and the Boys Brigade of the Christian faith. Malam Tahir also confirmed that the Kaduna State chapters of both JNI and CAN would each receive Hummer buses, with other Islamic sects and Christian blocks also slated to receive vehicles to facilitate their religious and community engagement activities. The Director General assured that additional Christian denominations and Islamic sects not included in this initial round of donations would be considered in subsequent distributions.
Governor's Engagement With Religious Leaders
Malam Tahir emphasised Governor Uba Sani's consistent engagement with the diverse religious communities in Kaduna State since assuming office over three years ago. He noted that the Governor has actively collaborated with religious leaders in the distribution of the dividends of democracy, citing examples such as the provision of free fertiliser and numerous political appointments. This ongoing partnership aims to foster unity and ensure equitable development among adherents of both faiths.
Drawing on religious teachings, Malam Tahir reminded the Muslim community of Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) injunction to reciprocate kind gestures, urging them to offer prayers for their benefactor if direct reciprocity is not possible. Similarly, he highlighted the Christian commandment to pray for leaders. He then made a direct plea for prayers for Governor Sani's re-election, expressing confidence that a second term would see even greater positive contributions. Representatives from the Kaduna State chapters of JNI and CAN conveyed their gratitude for the Governor's generous donations and committed to praying for enduring peace and development across the state.