Coinciding Christian, Muslim Fasts Signal Need for Interfaith Harmony — FCT Village Head

Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka ,Abuja

Chief Umar Gani Sarki Karmo (Gormo III), an Islamic scholar and Degachi (village head) of Karmo Sabo in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has said the yearly fasting periods of Christians and Muslims, which commenced on the same day, call for interfaith harmony.

He called for unity and peace among adherents of both religions as the Christian and Islamic fasting periods coincide in 2026.
In an interview with our correspondent, the village head stressed that the coincidence is a call for unity, peace, and love among religious bodies, noting that every religion preaches peace. He urged believers to work together to promote peace in the country.
He explained that the simultaneous fasting would help reduce the rate of sin and other negative activities, describing it as a blessing for all believers. He advised the government to incorporate religious laws into the Constitution to foster peace and unity, and to encourage interfaith dialogue.
Speaking on how he promotes peace and unity between Muslims and Christians in his community, Chief Umar Gani Sarki Karmo said he permits Christian crusades to hold in his playground while advising them to respect Muslim prayer times. He also encourages Muslims to respect other religions and live peacefully with others.
He further advised followers of different religions to read both the Quran and the Bible to better understand the teachings of their faiths. According to him, reading holy books provides guidance and helps people understand one another’s religions, which is vital for unity and peace.
On divisions within religions, he described it as a challenge and urged believers to pursue unity, referencing the Prophet’s teaching that the true path is the one that follows God’s commandments.
Regarding the use of music in worship, he stated that it is not permissible in Islam and that worship should be conducted with respect and dignity.
The village head also commented on the recurring fire outbreaks in Karmo markets, describing them as trials from God. He encouraged residents to remain patient and steadfast in prayer, trusting in God’s wisdom.
Asked about the lessons to be drawn from the coinciding fasting periods, the Degachi reiterated that it is a call for unity and peace among all people. He encouraged believers to read the holy books, and to respect and understand each other’s faiths.
In his concluding remarks, he urged everyone to promote peace, unity, and love, while emphasizing the importance of reading holy books for guidance. He also prayed for Allah to grant all believers the understanding needed to comprehend the teachings of the scriptures.
The traditional ruler reaffirmed that reading holy books is essential for unity and peace, urging believers to strive to understand one another’s religions. He further advised the government to promote interfaith dialogue, respect religious diversity, and incorporate religious laws into the Constitution as a pathway to achieving peace in Nigeria.
The village head’s appeal for interfaith harmony serves as a timely reminder of the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, particularly during the fasting seasons observed by Christians and Muslims.