By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)
The Governor of Niger state, Hon. Mohammed Umar Bago has expressed preparedness of his administration to work towards restoring religious tolerance enjoyed between Christians, Muslims and adherents of other faith over the years in the state.
Governor Bago gave the assurance during the inauguration of the new executive of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Niger state chapter.
The Governor, represented by the state Commissioner Homeland Security, Barr Maurice Bello Magaji described recent attacks targeted more on Christians as very unfortunate, adding that the state government is taking steps to restore the lost glory of religious tolerance enjoyed by every citizen irrespective of tribal inclinations.
As a government, security starts with kinetic measure, adding that it is unfortunate that some people in the name of promoting religion infringe on the rights and freedom of religious beliefs of others.
"Before now many homes have both Christians and Muslims living as one big family peacefully, but sadly it is not so now because of some people's level of religious radicalism or intolerance and lack of love for one another".
Governor Bago said no meaningful development can be achieved in a society that is devoid of tolerance for one another's religion and therefore assured Christians in Niger state of preparedness to go back to the stage whereby citizens are allowed to practice their religion under peaceful atmosphere without fear of molestations.
The PFN Vice President, Prophet Isa El-Buba who inaugurated the new state executives, encouraged them to work as a team without which they cannot achieve greater successes.
El-Buba nevertheless reminded the newly inaugurated Pastor PeteRock Sadiq led exco that as leaders or shepherds should lead by example and not positioning themselves as Lords or masters over the flock they willingly accepted to pasture.
The new state Chairman of PFN, Pastor PeteRock Sadiq, the Resident Pastor of House on the Rock church, Minna assured of his preparedness to add to the achievements made by his predecessor, Pastor Aloy Morka.
Other members of the new executive ae; Rev. Remi Folorunsho, deputy Chairman, Rev. Charles Nwabudu, Secretary, Rev. Thomas Adama.Treasurer while the only female on the ten-man executive, Rev. Sarah Akinoluwatunde is to serve as Welfare Officer. NNL.
