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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
In a strong display of interfaith unity, a delegation of Christian leaders from Southern Kaduna attended this year’s Eid prayer ground to congratulate Muslims on the successful completion of the 30-day Ramadan fast, while promoting peace, unity, and religious tolerance.
Leading the delegation, Pastor (Dr) Yohanna Buru, a prominent Christian cleric in Kaduna, joined thousands of Muslims at the Eid-el-Fitr prayer ground on March 20.
He said their visit was aimed at strengthening relationships and fostering peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
The event, held at Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna, brought together diverse religious leaders and communities, highlighting the urgent need for national unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Pastor Buru congratulated Muslim leaders and faithful on the occasion of Eid, extending goodwill messages to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, as well as respected scholars, including Sheikh Ibrahim Dahiru Bauchi, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, Sheikh Salihu Mai Barota, and Imam Isah Sani of Waff Road, Kaduna.
He noted that similar gestures are often reciprocated during Christian celebrations such as Christmas, when many Muslims, including Sunni, Shia, and Tijaniyya adherents, usually join Christians in marking the birth of Jesus Christ.
According to him, this marks the sixth time he and his delegation have participated in Eid celebrations at the prayer ground, demonstrating a growing tradition of mutual respect and cooperation between faiths.
“These gatherings provide important opportunities for understanding and reconciliation,” Pastor Buru said. “We must remember that we are one family under God. Whether Christian or Muslim, we worship the same Creator. Both the Qur’an and the Bible preach peace, and we are all descendants of Adam and Eve.”
He urged Nigerians, regardless of religion or background, to prioritise peace, love, and unity in building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
“Together, we can overcome our differences and build a country where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued,” he added.
Other Christian leaders, including Reverend Titus Ishiyaku, Pastor John, and Evangelist Rawland Sanda, alongside church members, also attended the prayers. They echoed Pastor Buru’s message, calling for stronger ties between Christians and Muslims, and urged Nigerians to continue praying for peaceful coexistence.
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In a related development, Reverend Danjuma Mazadu, with Rev. Simon Jatau of Bishara Baptist Church, Kasuwan Magani, also visited the Kasuwar Magani Eid prayer ground from Southern Kaduna to congratulate Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan and to thank them for ceaseless prayers offered for peace and unity during the holy month.
Reverend Danjuma Mazadu prayed for lasting peace and stability, reiterating that “we are one family under God”.
He added that this was not his first time attending the Eid prayer ground, noting that he regularly joins Muslims at Eid celebrations to strengthen peace and religious tolerance.
“Stressing that we, as Christians, we visit them at the Eid ground to greet them and congratulate them for the successful completion of the 30 days of Ramadan.”
According to him, he also participates annually in clearing the Eid-el-Kabir prayer ground as a sign of unity and cooperation.
Reverend Mazadu called on citizens to support the government in efforts to improve the lives of all Nigerians and prayed for sustained peace and unity in the country.
He also commended the Chief Imam of the Central Mosque, Imam Abduljalal Abduljalal, and Mallam Hakilu for their efforts in promoting peace and unity in Kasuwar Magani.
Muslim leaders welcomed the Christian delegation with appreciation. Mallam Sunusi Surajo, a member of the organising committee, praised Kaduna State for setting a strong example in promoting religious harmony.
“We pray that this spirit of peace spreads across all 36 states of Nigeria,” he said.
The event also attracted notable dignitaries, including former Kaduna State Governor Alhaji (Dr) Ramalan Yero, along with prominent Islamic scholars and traditional leaders.
In his response, Sheikh Halliru Maraya commended the Christian clerics for visiting them at the Eid prayer ground, emphasising that all humanity shares a common origin from Adam and Eve and hence the need to promote peace and religious tolerance.
This year’s Eid celebration comes amid rising cost of living and increasing insecurity, further underscoring the need for peace, unity, and stability in the country.
