12/08/2026
NIREC WARNS AGAINST RELIGIOUS, TRIBAL POLITICS IN ADAMAWA
By George Kushi
The Adamawa State chapter of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), led by its co-chairmen, Alhaji Gambo Jika and Rev Dr. Joel Danjuma Manzo has warned politicians and individuals against exploiting religion and tribal sentiments to divide the people of the state for political gains.
The council gave the warning when it paid a courtesy visit to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri at the Government House, Yola, where it commended his administration for its achievements and efforts in sustaining peace and security across the state.
NIREC expressed concern over inflammatory messages on social media and attempts to mobilise voters along religious lines, describing the trend as dangerous to the peace and unity of Adamawa.
The council stressed that neither Christians nor Muslims could develop the state alone, urging citizens to reject hate speech, bigotry and ethnic or religious sentiments and embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect.
The council also commended Governor Fintiri for what it described as his fairness to people of all faiths and assured him of continued support for his administration's peacebuilding efforts.
Responding, Governor Fintiri emphasised the importance of peace, unity and peaceful coexistence to the continued development of Adamawa, appreciating NIREC for its partnership with government and urging religious leaders to remain united in promoting harmony.
NIREC disclosed plans to strengthen its structures across the 21 local government areas to take the campaign for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence to the grassroots.
The council said Adamawa could not afford to lose its relative peace, noting that the development being witnessed across the state is closely linked to the stability enjoyed by its people.
