Islamic Movement in Nigeria, popularly known as, Shi’ites, joined Christians at a Christmas Service at St Joseph Catholic Church, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State on Monday.
The Islamic group described it as a move to strengthen religious harmony and unity between religious groups.
Leader of the Shi’ite group, Prof Isah-Hassan Mshelgaru, said the group acknowledged Christmas as a day for festivities, friendliness and unity.
He added that joining Christian faithful as they mark Christmas was meant to renew hope for unity among Muslims, Christians and other religions.
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Mshelgaru said their decision to attend the church service was to strengthen the relationship between the two faith groups, noting that Islam and Christianity were revered faiths with more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s population as adherents.
“When other faithful unite with the two faith groups, it means the whole of Nigerian is united,” he said.
Speaking on the impact of the visit, Mshelgaru said as a group, it started visits to churches more than 25 years ago and since then there had been improved understanding between the group and Christians.
He added, “The visit has reduced the fears and some animosity between the two faith groups. They (Christians) are now open to us; we share sentiments and problems together. The regular exchange of visits has bridged the gaps between us.”
Earlier, the parish priest, Most Revd Isak Augustine, commended the Islamic group for the visit and urged the group for more visits to strengthen religious harmony and unity.
He prayed for God’s peace and to salvage the country from the myriad socioeconomic challenges.
The group also presented gifts to the Church.
