My Government Will Be Reflective On Religious Diversity To Promote Fairness And Equity-Gobir

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) governorship candidate in Kwara State, Alhaji Yakubu Gobir on Tuesday promised to run all inclusive government that will promote fairness, equity and statewide development.

Mr Gobir disclosed this during a stakeholder dialogue at Secretariat of the Kwara Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria CAN in Ilorin.

He reiterated his commitment towards a Kwara that prioritizes inclusion. “Before we are male, female, Christians, Muslims, Yorubas or Fulanis, we are first human. We are diverse in our beliefs, methodologies and backgrounds; but ultimately committed in soul and spirit towards the advancement of a Kwara State that serves us all.”

Kwara State has been plagued with religious tensions in recent times for the Christian folk. Among the top agitations for the Christian body is the inadequate religious representation in public office; and clashes among Muslims and Christians on the use of hijab in mission schools which led one death and several injuries during protests staged earlier this year.

Mr Gobir further stated that his administration would be reflective of the religious diversity which is currently evident in the YPP structure.

“CAN is an organization which any government looking to succeed must consult and partner with. Religion is not a tool of political manipulation and the place of meritocracy cannot be disregarded. We will find the Christians who can deliver the job and ensure they are a part of the new government,” he said.

Mr Gobir used the opportunity to congratulate CAN on the inauguration of its new Executive Council.

Speaking for the association, Chairman Kwara State CAN, Rt. Rev. Sunday Timothy Adewole said, “Current and past administrations have been insincere in fulfilment of promises made to Christian folk and become inaccessible after getting into office.

“We are mostly disregarded as a minority, for instance Gobir and the YPP are the only political players to consult us in the run-up to the 2023 elections.”

The session ended with a prayer session for the success of the YPP candidate led by Rev. S.T. Adewole and representatives of the CAN Executive Council.