Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has been lauded for his unwavering dedication to promoting inter-faith harmony and the peaceful co-existence of Nigeria.
According to the governor’s spokesman, Nsa Gill, Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, expressed his commendation in Calabar, where he was a distinguished guest at the inter-faith unity conference of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI).
In his closing remarks at the two-day inter-faith conference, Governor Otu who attended the closing event, stressed the significance of harmony in establishing a sense of belonging. He urged those contemplating secession or the dissolution of Nigeria as a unified entity to discard such notions as Nigeria’s unity is indissoluble.
In his words, “there are several families in Cross River that have prospered through cross-tribal and interfaith unions.”
“Hosting this event is a blessing for all of us. Interfaith collaboration is indispensable in today’s Nigeria,” he asserted.
“The obstacles we encounter arise from division, lack of comprehension, and an inability to embrace one another. In Cross River, everyone is embraced. It is imperative to remind individuals that we come into this world with nothing and depart with nothing. We must strive to be supportive of one another. Advancement can only be attained in a united, just, and harmonious nation.”
The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, earlier conveyed his appreciation for Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s efforts in fostering harmony among different tribes and faiths during the Unity Conference in Calabar.
He praised the Governor’s steadfast commitment to unity and peace, both within the state and nationwide. The Sultan emphasized the government’s responsibility to enhance education and counter divisive narratives and tendencies.
The event saw a diverse representation of Muslim adherents, alongside prominent government figures such as Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, and a representative of the Obong of Calabar, His Royal Highness Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, as well as the Christian Association of Nigeria.