“Governor Bago's Position Is on Track; Islam Encourages Peace” — Ustaz Zakari Jibrin

“Governor Bago's Position Is on Track; Islam Encourages Peace” — Ustaz Zakari Jibrin

Islamic cleric calls for responsible religious engagement, peaceful coexistence in Niger State

Islamic cleric Ustaz Zakari Jibrin has expressed support for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago's recent remarks on religious preaching, stating that the governor's position aligns with Islamic teachings on peace and the collective responsibility of citizens to preserve social harmony.

The cleric made the remarks amid ongoing public discussions surrounding Governor Bago's comments warning against sermons and messages capable of inciting hatred, division, or extremism in Niger State. The governor's statement has generated reactions from religious leaders, community stakeholders, and residents across the state.

According to Ustaz Jibrin, Islam promotes peace, moderation, wisdom, and constructive engagement, and religious platforms should be used to strengthen unity and moral values rather than encourage hostility or social discord.

He noted that maintaining peace in a diverse society such as Niger State requires cooperation among government institutions, religious leaders, traditional authorities, community organizations, and citizens.

Observers who share the cleric's position argue that Governor Bago's remarks were not targeted at any specific religious group or denomination but were intended to discourage messages capable of undermining public peace and social cohesion.

They maintain that governments have a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property, preserve law and order, and create an environment where citizens can coexist peacefully regardless of religious or ethnic differences.

Stakeholders also highlighted the role of religious leaders in promoting values such as honesty, discipline, respect for elders, charity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. They said such teachings contribute significantly to social stability and community development.

At the same time, commentators stressed that efforts to sustain peace should be accompanied by continued government action in addressing insecurity, unemployment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and other socio-economic challenges facing residents.

Many stakeholders further called for stronger collaboration between government agencies and religious institutions through established platforms such as the Niger State Bureau for Religious Affairs to enhance dialogue and mutual understanding.

As debate over the governor's comments continues, analysts have urged the public to interpret the remarks within the broader context of promoting peace, unity, and responsible religious engagement. They emphasized that preserving Niger State's longstanding reputation for peaceful coexistence requires commitment from all segments of society.

The discussions have also reinforced calls for citizens, political actors, and religious leaders to reject hate speech, extremism, and inflammatory rhetoric while working collectively toward the state's development and stability.