The Chairman of Fityanul-Islam, Sheikh Rabiu Abdullahu Zaria, has commended Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for proposing the establishment of the Kaduna State Religious Commission, saying the initiative would benefit adherents of all religions and their various sects.

Sheikh Rabiu made the remarks on Tuesday during the annual Maulid Nabiyyi celebration held at Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna.

He said Governor Sani had consistently supported religious activities since assuming office, adding that the governor had never rejected requests from Fityanul-Islam.

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According to him, adherents of the two major religions in the state had not experienced a more supportive governor.

The cleric promised that Fityanul-Islam would reciprocate the governor’s support at the polls.

He said, “We will not vote for someone who hates us, someone who will prevent us from celebrating Maulid, or someone who will arrest our Qur’anic pupils.”

Sheikh Rabiu expressed confidence that Governor Sani would complete his first term successfully, secure a second term and eventually attain a higher political office.

He prayed for God’s guidance for the governor and said, “Next May, we will all be gathered here at Murtala Muhammed Square to celebrate your victory at the polls.”

Speaking at the event, Governor Sani said the significance of the Maulid celebration was to encourage Muslims and other members of society to reflect on and emulate the exemplary character and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

He said, “We are all gathered here today to emulate the prophet and his lifestyle. We are all aware that he embraced everyone, irrespective of religion and ethnicity. This is the significance of this gathering.”

According to the governor, emulating the teachings and lifestyle of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) would promote peaceful coexistence in society and the country.

Sani recalled that when the Prophet migrated from Makkah to Madina, he governed inclusively, irrespective of the religious backgrounds of the people.

He said, “As leaders today, the only thing that we can do is to emulate the teachings and lifestyle of the prophet. That is why I commend the leadership of Fityanul-Islam Kaduna State branch, for this important gathering.”

The governor assured the organisation of continued government support, saying his administration would work closely with religious groups to promote peace and stability in the state.

He said Kaduna had recorded improved peace and tranquillity because his administration embraced people irrespective of their religion and ethnic background.

Sani added, “In this gathering, there are people of different faiths here; some are Muslims and others are Christians, this is because in Kaduna, we don’t judge you by your religion but by your character.”

The governor said the approach had produced positive results, expressing satisfaction that residents of the state were increasingly living peacefully and harmoniously.