By Daniel Karlmax
The Kaduna State Police Command has emphasized the importance of interfaith relationships in promoting peaceful coexistence, inclusive leadership, and socioeconomic growth and development in the country.
The Commandant, Police College Kaduna, AIG Dansabo Idi, made the emphasis when he received members of the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna, on a courtesy visit to the College under the Initiative of Change (IofC) platform.
The Commandant explained that the mandate of the IMC reflects some of the core responsibilities of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly in bringing people of different faiths together to promote peaceful coexistence and contribute to the advancement of society.
AIG Dansabo described the initiative as a welcome development, particularly in view of the prevailing distrust among people of different faiths in the country and the global community.
According to him, such programmes would broaden their understanding of mutual respect, tolerance, and trust-building.
Dansabo was optimistic that the intervention would bring about a paradigm shift in the way people, particularly members of the police force, perceive interfaith relations and coexistence, both within the force and in society at large.
He further stated that his doors were open to the IMC to train police recruits on the challenges they may encounter in the wider society, particularly issues relating to interfaith relationships.
Responding, the Co-Director of the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna, Mr. Samson Auta, said the visit followed the previous Initiative of Change (IofC) training programme, which was aimed at building trust, fostering understanding, and promoting social cohesion between the force and the public.
He said the visit was informed by the critical role the police play in society, including law enforcement and mediation, stressing the need to enlighten officers on issues surrounding interfaith relationships for inclusive policing and peaceful coexistence.
“We have also been engaging with the staff and Command College Jaji for graduating officers. During those programmes in Jaji, the pastor and imam usually share scriptural messages with the participants, giving faith-based perspectives from both the Christian and Muslim viewpoints.”
“Part of what we are calling for is for the College to avail us of those opportunities, especially during graduation ceremonies, where our pastors and imams can share perspectives on how people around the world have been able to forge ahead through forgiveness, reconciliation, and dialogue.” Auta said.
The Co-Director pointed further that, IMC Kaduna remains committed to promoting peace through community as well as inter- agency cooperation, building trust and social cohesion among people of diverse ethnic and religious differences.
Editing By Godwin Duru
