The Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, has been widely commended for his transformative visit to Plateau State Jos City, where he participated in a series of events marking the 50th anniversary of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass’s historic visit. The Emir’s engagements spanned from Thursday to Saturday last week and were a resounding call for peace, unity, and harmonious coexistence among Plateau State’s diverse religious and ethnic communities.
In a statement issued by Alhaji Sani Mu’azu, Makaman Jos North on Sunday 15 December 2024, heartfelt gratitude was extended to the Emir for the profound impact of his visit. His Royal Highness’s schedule included a distinguished courtesy call to the Governor of Plateau State, a stakeholders’ town hall meeting, the grand Maulud celebration at the Polo Field, and a monumental Jumu’at Khutba at the Jos Central Mosque. The Friday sermon, attended by hundreds of thousands, showcased the Emir’s exceptional interfaith scholarship and his unwavering advocacy for peaceful coexistence.
During his Khutba, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II artfully combined his deep knowledge of Christian theology and Islamic jurisprudence, advocating for unity and mutual respect. Drawing from historical precedents, including Prophet Muhammad’s covenant with the Christians of Najran and the interfaith harmony exemplified by figures like Saint Francis of Assisi and Salahuddin Al-Ayyubi, the Emir emphasized the sanctity of life and the shared ethical values that underpin all religions.
The Emir’s call for tolerance within the Muslim Ummah was equally significant. His plea for intrareligious harmony and his declaration that “the time to justify differences is over” provided a powerful framework for resolving sectarian tensions. This message, coupled with his emphasis on peace as a foundation for development, resonated deeply with the congregation and broader community.
The Emir also reminded listeners that societal progress depends on an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, aligning his message with global thought leaders like Amartya Sen, who link social cohesion to sustainable development. His visit reaffirmed the Quranic teaching: “O mankind, We have created you from a male and a female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another” (Quran 49:13), highlighting the divine mandate for coexistence.
The Emir’s visit left an indelible mark on Plateau State, rekindling hope for a harmonious future where Muslims and Christians, as well as diverse Muslim sects, live together in mutual respect and understanding. His efforts to bridge divides and inspire unity have been hailed as a landmark contribution to peacebuilding in the region.
May Allah (SWT) continue to bless and guide Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II in his mission to inspire and lead with distinction. His visit has undoubtedly created ripples of positive change that will endure for generations to come.
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