The Zaar community in Bauchi State has strongly condemned the recent statement issued by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), which disregards the constitutional rights of non-Muslim Nigerians and promotes religious discrimination.
This condemnation was expressed in a statement made by Mbami Iliya Sabka, the Chief Priest of the Zaar Traditional Worshipers, and was made available to journalists in Bauchi on Thursday.
The statement is titled “Zaar Community’s Response to MURIC’s Statement to the Governor of Bauchi State.”
The community felt compelled to respond to the recent remarks made by MUSRIC regarding the Governor of Bauchi State’s decision to create the Sayawa Chiefdom, with its headquarters in Tafawa Balewa Township.
The Chief Priest stated that, “We would like to remind MURIC and the public that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria explicitly prohibits the adoption of a State religion by the Government of the Federation or of a State, as outlined in Section 10.”
He stressed that “Furthermore, Section 38 guarantees every person the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. The imposition of an Emirate Council exclusively in Bauchi State violates these constitutional rights, as the Emirate system pertains solely to Muslims and not to Nigerians of other faiths. This practice is discriminatory and contravenes Section 42(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, ethnicity, or social status.”
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Mbami Iliya Sabka added that,”Your Excellency, Senator Bala AbdulKadir Muhammad, as the People’s Governor, known for his commitment to social justice, we find it troubling to respond to MURIC’s biased statements. However, it is necessary to address their actions, which violate Sections 10, 38, and 42(1) of the 1999 Constitution and risk causing religious conflict in a secular state. We urge MURIC to understand that no religion is superior to another in Nigeria.”
According to him, “The creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom is a step towards inclusive governance that respects the diversity of Bauchi State’s populace. MURIC’s assertion that creating the Sayawa Chiefdom will lead to injustice against Muslims is unfounded.”
“The proposed Chiefdom does not undermine the rights of Muslims; rather, it seeks to ensure that the Sayawa people can practice their cultural and religious traditions without prejudice. Good governance demands inclusivity and respect for all communities, irrespective of their religious affiliations,” he added.
The Sayawa Chief Priest added that, “Moreover, MURIC’s reference to past religious conflicts in Tafawa Balewa is misleading and inflammatory. The establishment of the Sayawa Chiefdom is a move towards healing and reconciliation, acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of the Sayawa people in Bauchi State.”
“We call on MURIC to cease its divisive rhetoric and support initiatives that promote harmony and mutual respect among all religious groups. The creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom is in line with the principles of justice, equity, and the constitutional mandate to protect the rights of all Nigerian citizens,” he stressed.
Mbami Iliya Sabka concluded that,”We trust that Governor Bala AbdulKadir Muhammad will continue to champion the cause of social justice and uphold the constitutional rights of all communities in Bauchi State.”
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