Nigeria will be better with tolerant religious leaders, Kwankwaso tells new CAN president

Presidential Candidate of New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Rabiu Kwankwaso has said Nigeria would be a better and more developed place if all men of God were tolerant and compassionate in their activities.

The former governor stated this in a congratulatory message issued and addressed to the new president of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Rev. Daniel Okoh on Saturday in Abuja.

Kwankwaso described Okoh as a detribalised Nigerian patriot, a hero of interfaith dialogue with an international track record in reconciling people, especially of different faiths, and a champion of peace, unity and the rule of law.

He said: ” Needless to add, and as Your Grace is, no doubt, already aware, we consider this as one of the most important offices in the world of faith; and we are indeed very delighted that the most-deserving of all is called upon to serve. Congratulations.

“We are even more pleased that the competitive selection process has produced a President who is a renowned scholar, a detribalized Nigerian patriot, a hero of interfaith dialogue with an international track record in reconciling people, especially of different faiths, and a champion of peace, unity and the rule of law.

“Our country will undoubtedly be a better place if all men of God of all religions approach pastoral work with the tolerance, compassion and faithfulness to higher principles that you have exhibited in the various offices that you have occupied in the past.

“And today, as you ascend to the Presidency of CAN, the scope has expanded and the horizon has broadened; and it is our prayer that, in your new position, God Almighty uses you, with the power of His Grace, to counsel and move the Nigerian Christendom towards a deep understanding of the Other, towards a sympathetic dialogue with the Other and towards building a sincere fellowship with everyone.

“As you take up this new responsibility today, I pray to God to continue to guide and protect you. May He make the task of steering the affairs of the CAN easy and successful for you.

“A team headed by my running mate, Bishop Isaac Idahosa is coming in person to deliver this letter and attend the ceremonies”.