Cross River State Holds Joint Muslim Prayer Sessions for Peace Across 18 LGAs

The Cross River State Government, led by Governor Bassey Edet Otu, joined Muslim communities across the state to hold special prayer sessions for peace, unity, and progress simultaneously in all eighteen local government areas.

The sessions took place during the Friday prayers, with the main event observed at the Ahmadiyya Mosque in Calabar.

Speaking after the prayer in Calabar, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, assured non-indigenes of their safety, describing Cross River as a peaceful and inclusive state where all residents coexist without bias, regardless of origin or religion.

Conveying the Governor’s message, Ekpang emphasized the long-standing harmony in the state“Many of you were born here and have married among us, making us one people. For decades, Muslims and indigenes of Cross River State have lived peacefully together, and this harmony must be sustained.”

The Commissioner, however, urged Muslim communities to maintain security-consciousness by identifying and reporting suspicious individuals and ensuring proper registration of newcomers to prevent criminal activities.

The Chief Imam of the Ahmadiyya Mosque, Calabar, Alhaji Akere Abdulhafeez, explained that the prayer was organized to promote peace, seek divine guidance for the government and its leaders, and contribute positively to the wellbeing of the society.

Alhaji Abdulhafeez added that special prayers were also offered for a peaceful and hitch-free Christmas celebration, underscoring the importance of mutual respect among people of different faiths.

Muslim communities across the state reaffirmed their commitment to peace, unity, and loyalty to the state government, expressing satisfaction with the cordial relationship they currently enjoy with the state authorities.