Governor Sule preaches peace, religious tolerance

…commends President Tinubu’s diplomatic approach to Trump’s warning.

By Ali Abare

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious faith, to be tolerant of each other for the country to move forward.

Governor Sule made the call while speaking as a Special Guest at the opening ceremony of the 30th National Choral Convention by the Non-Denominational Christian Choir Association of Nigeria, which took place in Lafia on Saturday.

In his address, Governor Sule, expressed gratitude to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for choosing Nasarawa State for this important gathering, adding that the choice, especially at a time of national challenge that has to do with religion, confirms the state’s reputation as a place of accommodation and mutual respect.

The Governor emphasized that the peace in Nasarawa State is sustained because both Muslims and Christians have shown remarkable tolerance towards one another.

According to him, to lead a state such as Nasarawa State, one must be a leader for everyone, regardless of faith.

“Indeed, in Nasarawa State, we are peaceful because we are accommodating. We are peaceful because we love each other. It is not only the Muslims that have been tolerant. The Christians in Nasarawa State have also been tolerant.

“If you want to be the governor of Nasarawa State, for a state so mixed, you must be the governor of the Christians, Muslims, Jews, Buddhist, and everybody. If you do not make up your mind to be the governor for all, then you are not ready to be the governor of Nasarawa State,” he stated.

He however pointed out that politicians often only remember religion when they are seeking for votes, but abandon such discussions afterwards.

“It is only when we are interested in election that is when we introduce religion. Don’t be misled. Leave politicians alone. When they go back, when they are sharing money, they don’t discuss religion. When they are sharing other things, they don’t discuss religion. They only discuss religion when they want votes. That is why in Nasarawa State we made up our mind that we will not be distracted by religion. We will welcome everybody,” he said.

Governor Sule therefore urged the people not to be misled by such tactics, stressing that his administration is committed to being a government for all.

The Governor also used the opportunity to address the recent warning from American President, Donald Trump.

While expressing concern over the suggestion of an attack on Nigeria, he drew from his personal experience having lived, studied and worked in the United States, to confirm that America acts only in defence of it own interest.

He dismissed those calling for war, especially those who ignorantly point to China or Russia to defend Nigeria against American attack.

Governor Sule however commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his decision to approach the matter diplomatically, with a view to resolving the impasse.

He warned that the destruction seen in other nations like Ukraine should serve as a lesson, and Nigeria cannot afford to be destroyed by the interests of big powers.

The appreciated President Tinubu’s path of diplomacy as the only sensible way to handle the situation, as military conflict would only bring severe damage to the nation, urging all citizens to pray for the President to continue with this wise approach.

“I lived in America. I went to school in America. I worked in America. I know what America is. I know the challenges of faith. America is only interested in American interest. Whenever there is an American interest that is being challenged, America will react. Our President also went to school in America. He has a good understanding of what America is,” he added.

Responding to the request made by the CAN Choir, he promised to not only buy a land for the group in Abuja but also sponsor the construction of a befitting secretariat for the NCCN.

Earlier in the event, the National Chairman of the CAN Choir, Reverend Anthony Tukura, explained that Nasarawa State was chosen for the convention because of the prevailing peace and security in the state.
“We used to hold this programme yearly from one state to another but today, we have chosen Nasarawa State for one specific reason. There are issues of insecurity in some of the states, but when we analysed, we realise that in Nasarawa State it is peaceful. We also realise that the Governor has worked so hard to maintain peace and order in this state. If Nasarawa could have three consecutive governors like Governor Sule, Nasarawa State will be the best state in Nigeria,” he said.

Reverend Tukura however appealed to the Governor to assist the NCCN that has existed for the past 44 years without a secretariat.

On his part, the State Chairman of CAN, Very Reverend Sunday Emma, also commended Governor Sule, describing him as a leader who does not discriminate, a man led by wisdom and the fear of God, and one who is proactive in matters of peace.