The Kebbi State Government has called on religious leaders across the state to promote peace, unity and moral guidance while avoiding political antagonism capable of misleading the public.
The appeal came as the government dismissed allegations that the administration of Nasir Idris has failed to support the growth of Islam and the overall development of the state.
Speaking during a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Muhammad Sani Aliyu, described the allegations as unfounded and misleading.
He said the claims were made by Islamic cleric Bashir Jega during a recent Friday sermon in which he criticised the state government’s handling of religious affairs.
Aliyu maintained that the assertion that nothing had been done for religion under the current administration ignores the achievements recorded since Governor Idris assumed office.
According to him, one of the landmark achievements of the government is the creation of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, a development he described as a long-awaited milestone that had remained unrealised for over 25 years despite efforts by previous administrations.
He noted that successive governments, both military and civilian, were unable to establish a dedicated ministry to coordinate religious activities until the present administration demonstrated the political will to actualise it.
The commissioner also disclosed that the government has strengthened key religious institutions in the state, including the Zakat and Waqf Board, the Preaching Board and the Hisbah Commission, by providing them with legal backing through gazetted laws and the necessary support to enhance their operations.
Aliyu therefore urged clerics and religious leaders to remain focused on their primary responsibility of guiding and educating the public spiritually, stressing that religious platforms should not be used to promote political hostility.
He added that the Kebbi State Government remains committed to supporting religious institutions and promoting harmony among residents of the state.
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