The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC, Rev Dr. Yakubu Pam, has called on religious leaders in Plateau State to do all they can to avert the Rwandan experience in the state.
Rev Pam was speaking when he paid a visit to the leadership of the Jamatu Nasira Islam, JNI, Friday, September 24, 2021, at the Jos Central Mosque.
Pam, who was there to empathise with the Muslim community over the sad event that took place along Rukuba Road, said, “I was pained over the violence that took place recently that almost destroyed the peace we have enjoyed in the last six years.
“All over the world, people were shocked by what happened. We must know the importance of spoken words. Preachers of both religions must learn to deliver messages that will build, not destroy. We must build strong friendships and bonds.
“Our people are ignorant about their holy books. We must not be tired but continue to dialogue between Muslim and Christian leaders to stop this carnage.”
Pam, who said he was away when the sad incident took place, said, “The devil wanted to take advantage of our loose situation to cause havoc to Plateau State after a long break of violence,” called on the people to teach their children tolerance and forgiveness.
Making reference to the Rwandan genocide of 1994, Pam said, “In Rwanda, genocide took place because of hate speeches. As ministers and preachers of God, we must seek cooperation in a joint session with both Muslim and Christian leaders to discuss and ventilate amongst ourselves.
“We must learn to tame our tongues and we should know that the power of life and death lies in the tongue. God has a purpose for us to be together and we should embrace one another where we have found ourselves.”
Underlining the need for tolerance, Pam said, “I was in Jordan, Muslims are more than Christians (10%), but in their government administration, you can’t spot, any differences as they work to promote the ideals of their country”.
Responding on behalf of the chairman of JNI, HRH, Sheik Garba Abdulkadir, leader of the Hausa Community in Jos, said they know the ES to be a man of peace and are happy with him for leaving everything in Abuja to come and identify with them over the ugly incident.
In his closing remarks, Executive Secretary, Plateau State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board, Barr Awal expressed readiness to partner with the NCPC boss on peace dialogue while calling for “no-go” areas to be completely dismantled in Plateau State.
The Nation