Nasarawa Governor, Abdullahi Sule saif the State belongs to Christians and Muslims who tolerate one another for peace, unity and development.
The Governor spoke at the weekend in Lafia as Special Guest during the opening ceremony of the 30th National Choral Convention by the Non Denominational Christian choir Association of Nigeria.
He called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious faith, to be tolerant of each other for the country to move forward.
He 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 emphasised the peace in Nasarawa State is sustained because 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.
Sule urged the people not to be misled by such tactics, stressing that his administration is committed to being a government for all.
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.
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.
