Former Secretary General of the Anglican Communion Worldwide, Most Reverend Josiah Idowu-Fearon, has called on Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and his predecessor Nasir El-Rufai to set aside their political differences and collaborate for the peace and progress of the state.
Speaking during a Zoom briefing with select journalists in Kaduna, the respected cleric — who also serves as Chairman of the Kaduna State Peace Commission — expressed concern over the ongoing public spat between the two political leaders, describing it as “unhealthy and unhelpful.”
He urged both men to focus on unity and development, rather than deepening political divisions.
“Our not helping to resolve this when it started is a reflection of elders in the state not playing their roles effectively,” he said. “Religious and traditional elders have failed — possibly because they took sides. But all hope is not lost.”
Idowu-Fearon, who is also Assistant Bishop in the Diocese of Southwark and Theologian in Residence at St John the Divine, Houston, stressed the need for collaboration across political and religious lines, warning against the growing politicization of religion in Northern Nigeria.
“Religion should never be weaponized,” he said. “Muslim-Christian, Muslim-Muslim, Christian-Christian — these labels are distractions. What Nigeria needs are leaders of faith and character working for the common good.”
He urged religious leaders to avoid misleading their followers with divisive messages that contradict the core teachings of their faiths.
“Believers can work together, serve together, and rebuild Kaduna together,” he stated.
On governance, the archbishop called for greater transparency, equity, and youth engagement, urging public officials to demonstrate accountability in how state resources are managed.
“The young people are asking for evidence of governance. Let there be fairness in appointments, clarity in resource distribution, and public disclosure of state affairs.”
