By our Reporter
Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto,
has declared that “it is totally wrong for Christians to be dragged or subjected to sharia law or court,” stressing that Sharia applies only to Muslims.
Speaking in Abuja at the 2025 triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council themed on promoting peace, he added that Christians must not be compelled to “dress or pray like Muslims” and affirmed that Nigeria is a multi-religious nation whose government supports both major faiths without bias.
At the gathering, Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen urged deeper cooperation between NIREC and the Federal Government to advance peace-building and tackle insecurity.
He warned that extremists were exploiting religion to create division and praised NIREC for promoting unity. Tajudeen said the meeting signaled national resolve for peaceful coexistence and promised legislative support, insisting that Nigerians must “challenge stereotypes” and dismiss narratives that incite hostility.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume highlighted internal security challenges, political tension, and eroding trust.
He assured that the government remains committed to citizens’ welfare and safety and urged religious and traditional leaders to reinforce unity. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh called for stronger collaboration between faith institutions and government, noting their reach in mobilising communities for peace.
NIREC Executive Secretary Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua said every life is precious to God and urged leaders to work together to defeat terrorism and banditry. He prayed for wisdom for authorities and for a national renewal that promotes positive values and strengthens harmony.
