2015: Kwankwaso visits Christian leaders in Lagos, appeals for unity

From Edwin olofu, Kano

Kano state governor Rabiu Kwankwaso visited some of Nigeria’s prominent Christian leaders in Lagos state, over the weekend, as part of his ongoing consultation with opinion leaders across the country, over his presidential ambition in 2015.

A Press statement release signed by his director of press and public relations Halilu Ibrahim Dantiye made to newsmen in kano stated that Kwankwaso informed the religious leaders that he visited them as part of his on-going consultation regarding his presidential aspiration on the platform of the APC.

“Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi-cultural country and all of us are yearning for good leadership that will restore our country back on the track of progress. We must, therefore, come together as one to bring about the much needed positive change in this country”, he asserted.

Kwankwaso said as a presidential aspirant, he is carrying everybody along irrespective of religious or cultural affiliation, stressing, however, that as people who command respect in the society, the clerics must be consulted on issues of governance and leadership.

“Let me say that this visit is part of our consultations to vie for the presidency of this great country. People from across the country have been urging me to contest but as critical stakeholders in the scheme of affairs, I believe your wise counsel cannot be ignored”, the governor maintained.

“Religious and cultural differences should not deter us from seeking good leadership at the centre and indeed at all levels – a leadership that will address our current security and economic challenges and make our unity stronger”, Kwankwaso stated.

In their separate remarks, the Christian leaders described the visit as the first of its kind, pointing out that it is a testimony to the dynamism and open mindedness of Kwankwaso.

They acknowledged that Nigeria is indeed in a critical stage in its socio-political development, promising to pray for him and for continued peace and prosperity in the country.

The clerics visited were retired Arch. Bishop of Lagos and former National President of CAN, His Eminence, Anthony Olubunmi Okogie, the Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, the Most Reverend Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu Uche, Chairman, CAN, Lagos state Very Rev. Stephen Tunde Adegbite, and the Dean Emeritus and Bishop of Lagos Anglican Communion, the Most Rev. Dr. Ephraim Adebola Ademowo.