By Mala Abdulazeez
A two-day interfaith dialogue aimed at fostering peace and reconciliation has commenced in Potiskum, Yobe State.
Organized by the Yobe State Hisbah Commission in collaboration with the Multi-sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP) and Yobe PCU, the event focuses on exploring shared religious teachings and values to improve interpersonal and inter-communal relations between Muslims and Christians.
Dr. Yahuza Hamza Abubakar, Executive Chairman of the Yobe State Hisbah Commission, emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and tolerance across religious and ethical divides. He commended the Yobe State Government and developmental partners for their support.
Represented by Mallam Muhammad Bashir, Director of Conflict Resolution, Dr. Abubakar stressed that no community can thrive without love and tolerance.
State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bar. Sule Samanja, highlighted the Hisbah Commission’s role in assisting the Yobe State Government and citizens in curbing social and immoral acts and in resolving issues related to domestic violence and morality.
Bishop Yohanna Audu, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Yobe State Chapter, emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and mutual respect for religions.
Represented by Potiskum LG CAN Chairman Rev. Michael Dada explained that the Bible and Quran are not inherently in conflict.
He urged Muslims and Christians to seek further knowledge to promote lasting peace in the state and country at large.
In their goodwill messages, the Emir of Fika, Alh. Dr. Muhammad Abali Ibn Mohammed Idrissa, and the Emir of Potiskum, Alh. Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya, called on their subjects to embrace peace, unity, tolerance, and mutual respect.
The interfaith dialogue includes interactive sessions between Muslim and Christian leaders and paper presentations from three scholars.