Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, Monday in Sokoto stressed the need for Nigerians to work towards ensuring political stability of the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar 111, Governor Uduaghan said that the current security challenges called for deliberate efforts on the part of everyone despite their ethno-religious and political persuasions to work for the unity of the country.
According to him, political stability which is essential to the greatness and growth of the nation rested on unity of the country.
Dr. Uduaghan reiterated the need for all Nigerians to stand behind President Goodluck Jonathan’s efforts at restoring peace and stability in the country, particularly to the North East.
He commended the efforts of the Sultan of Sokoto at promoting inter-religious harmony and stability of the country.
”I want to commend the Sultan for what he is doing for Nigeria … particularly with the present security challenges and his efforts to see that Nigeria remained united.”
Also, he thanked the Sultan for the protection and hospitality shown towards Deltans residing in Sokoto.
In his remarks, the Sultan of Sokoto said that the Sokoto Caliphate has enjoyed a cordial relationship with the people of Delta State and the Governor in particular.
That he pointed out was a clear indication that “we can live peacefully together with one another despite ethnic and religious differences.”
The Sultan who spoke on the recurring clashes between farmers and herdsmen, stressed the need for dialogue and consensus and what he termed a ‘balancing act’ to forestall further clashes.
“The laws must be applied and those who commit atrocities and offences against the land must be punished”, he stated, noting that the inability to punish offenders was responsible for the growing culture of impunity in the country.
Similarly, the Sultan, at the dedication of the Holy Family Mother and Child Clinic built by the Sokoto Diocese of the Catholic Church, said that lack of knowledge, understanding and love were responsible for the destruction of lives and property perpetrated in the name of religion.
“We need to preach peace always, we need the people to get understanding and love for one another… 2015 is coming, do not allow yourselves to be used by politicians”, he admonished, while promising to continue to pray for peace and unity in Nigeria.
The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah described the Sultan as an epitome of what leadership in Nigeria ought to be, adding that the he has made Islam to be acceptable to all.
