From Desmond Mgboh, Kano

Nigerians have been tasked to rescue religion from powerful forces who exploit it to serve their selfish interests and goals. This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a one – day National Inter- Religious Conference held in Kano with the theme: “Harnessing Nigeria’s Diversity for Sustainable Peace and National Development,”

The communiqué signed by the Secretary of the Organising Committee, Mohammed Garba, at the weekend, acknowledged the fact that Nigeria has witnessed occasional ethnic, communal and religious conflicts since its birth, which had led to many suffering setbacks.

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The conference also lamented the use of religion by some politicians to deepen the differences among Nigerians. It charged Nigerians to cultivate the habit of learning, “to live together (LTLT)” as unity and peace are priceless commodities crucial to the development and progress of the country.

While charging Nigerians to be tolerant, respectful and humble for sustainable peaceful co-existence to be realised in the country, it also enjoined other states of the federation to organise similar conference to ensure peace and harmony in the land, as well as appreciating the governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for hosting the conference.

Cardinal John Onaiyekan and Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau, co-chaired the conference, while papers were presented by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and Prof. Salisu Shehu, among others.