BREAKING NEWS: NIREC Warns Against Religious Division Ahead of Future Elections

NIREC Warns Against Religious Division Ahead of Future Elections

The Nigerian Inter-Religious Dialogue Council (NIREC), Adamawa State chapter, has raised concerns over increasing attempts to exploit religious differences for political and social gains as Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle.

Speaking during a visit to the Adamawa State Government, the Co-Chairman of NIREC in Adamawa and Chairman of the State Muslim Council, Alhaji Gambo Jika, condemned efforts by certain individuals and groups to manipulate public opinion through religious sentiments, particularly on social media platforms.

According to Jika, both Islam and Christianity promote values of peace, love, unity, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence, stressing that religion should never be used as a tool to divide communities or fuel tension.

The NIREC delegation also included the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Adamawa State, Rev. Joel Manzo, who serves alongside Jika as co-chairman of the interfaith council.

The religious leaders called on the government and security agencies to take firm action against anyone deliberately inciting division or spreading inflammatory messages capable of threatening the peace of the state. They urged authorities to ensure that those found guilty of such acts face appropriate legal consequences.

Responding to the delegation, Adamawa State Governor, , reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the state. He warned that no individual is above the law and criticized those who use religion as a cover to advance political interests.

Governor Fintiri assured residents that his government would not tolerate any action capable of disrupting the peaceful coexistence that has been sustained in Adamawa State over the years.

NIREC further reaffirmed its dedication to promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation between Christians and Muslims. The council also encouraged citizens to reject divisive narratives and unverified information, especially content shared on social media, in order to safeguard peace, unity, and religious harmony throughout the state.

The renewed call comes amid growing concerns about the role of misinformation and identity-based politics in shaping public discourse ahead of future elections in Nigeria.