Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
Chief Umar Gani Sarki Karmo (Gormo III), an Islamic scholar and Degachi (village head) of Karmo Sabo in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for interfaith unity and peace as the Christian and Islamic fasting periods coincide in 2026.
In an interview with our correspondent, the village head emphasized that the coincidence is a call for unity, peace, and love between religious bodies, saying every religion preaches peace. He urged believers to come together to promote peace in the country.
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He explained that the coincidence will reduce the rate of committing sins and other bad activities, adding that it’s a blessing for every believer. He advised the government to include religious laws in the Constitution to promote peace and unity, and to encourage interfaith dialogue.
When asked how he promotes peace and unity between Muslims and Christians in his community, Chief Umar Gani Sarki Karmo said he allows Christian crusades in his playground and advises them to respect Muslim prayer times. He also encourages Muslims to respect other religions and live in peace.
He advised followers of different religions to read the Quran and the Bible, and to understand the teachings of their religions. He emphasized that reading holy books guides us and helps us understand each other’s religions, which is essential for unity and peace.
Regarding the division within religions, he said it’s a problem, and believers should strive for unity, citing the Prophet’s saying that the only true path is the one that follows God’s teachings.
On the use of music in worship, he stated that it’s not allowed in Islam, and believers should worship God with respect and dignity.
The village head also shared his views on the frequent fire outbreak in Karmo markets, saying it’s a test from God, and believers should be patient and continue to pray to God, who knows it all.
When asked about the lessons that can be learned from the coincidence of the fasting periods, the Degachi therefore said it’s a call for unity and peace among all human beings, and believers should read the holy books, respect, and understand each other’s religions.
In his final message, he urged everyone to promote peace, unity, and love, and to read the holy books to guide us, as well as pray to Allah to give us all it takes to understand the contents of the holy books.
The traditional ruler emphasized that reading holy books is essential for unity and peace, and believers should strive to understand each other’s religions. He also advised the government to promote interfaith dialogue, respect each other’s religions, and include religious laws in the Constitution to achieve peace in Nigeria.
The village head’s call for interfaith harmony comes as a timely reminder of the importance of unity and peace among Nigerians, especially during the fasting periods of Christians and Muslims.
