The Emir of Wase, His Royal Highness, Dr Muhammadu Haruna, has said that love and dialogue are essential tools for conflict resolution and peaceful coexistence among people of the same or diverse faiths.

Mr Haruna, who is the Chairman of Jama’tul Nasri Islam in Plateau State, stated this on Tuesday in Jos at the Interfaith Dialogue organised by Search for Common Grounds in collaboration with the Plateau State Government.

The Emir said in his keynote address at the dialogue that the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict in Plateau and Nigeria could be addressed if people loved each other, accepted to discuss their differences, and resolved to stay in peace.

Mr Haruna, who said that both the Quran and the Bible emphasized love and compassion, urged religious and political leaders to uphold the principles for peace to reign in the state and beyond.

The monarch advocated policy reviews and community-driven initiatives to foster reconciliation and rebuild trust.

He emphasized the importance of genuine dialogue among stakeholders to entrench lasting peace and harmonious coexistence.

Also in his speech, the Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Religious Affairs, Rev. Stephen Dangana, identified reconciliation and understanding among people of different faiths and backgrounds as necessary ingredients for peace.

Mr Dangana urged individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic affiliations, to repent and work towards the unity and progress of their communities, the state, and the country at large.

The special adviser acknowledged that differences had been exploited to create divisions among communities instead of harnessing them for development.

The Country Director, Search for Common Ground, Fatima Abubakar, stated in her remarks that dialogue represented a crucial opportunity for leaders and members to come together to promote understanding, cooperation, and coexistence.

Mrs Abubakar said that faith has a profound identity in Nigeria, noting that about 87 per cent of Nigerians were identified as people of faith.

She said, “Over the years, we have observed how faith or religion, when wielded negatively, can breed mistrust, suspicion, and even violence. Conversely, it can foster cooperation towards our shared goals. It’s crucial to acknowledge that societies are diverse, comprising men, women, children, and youth, each experiencing the impact of faith differently. Incorporating diverse perspectives and community-driven interventions in dialogues will promote inclusion, peaceful communities, and respect for individuals with mental illness.

“Let’s consider various democratic models and devise recommendations to ensure everyone’s inclusion. Harnessing diverse perspectives and interventions at different levels of engagement is key to building peaceful communities that respect individuals with mental illness.’’

The country director said that community-driven interventions were effective and sustainable, especially when catering to vulnerable populations.

He emphasised the importance of inclusive communities for sustainable peace and development.

The interfaith dialogue with the theme “Towards inclusive and harmonious communities” featured a panel discussion on the role of state and non-state actors in promoting freedom of religion and beliefs. There was a drama by children of different faiths to highlight the need for peace and peaceful coexistence.

(NAN)