By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry in Kaduna State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, Pastor Yohanna Buru, has made a solemn visit with other Christian clerics to the Zaria Central Mosque.
This visit was undertaken to extend his heartfelt condolences to the Muslim Ummah and the entire nation in the wake of the tragic loss of lives and injuries resulting from the collapse of a section of the historic Central Mosque during Friday prayers.
Accompanied by a team of his fellow Christians, Pastor Yohanna Buru arrived in Zaria this morning to pay his respects at the mosque and offer condolences to the Muslim community.
In a touching gesture of interfaith unity, the Christian cleric, alongside esteemed Islamic scholars, expressed that the purpose of their visit was to convey messages of sympathy to the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Nuhu Bamali, and the entire Emirate Council.
Pastor Buru expressed his shock upon hearing the news of the untimely demise of at least five worshippers and conveyed sincere prayers and condolences to the grieving families who have lost their beloved ones in this tragic incident.
While touring the mosque, Pastor Yohanna emphasized the importance of rebuilding the mosque to ensure that worshippers can continue to pray at the Central Mosque without interruption.
"We offer our prayers for the souls of those who have departed, beseeching that they find eternal rest. Likewise, we extend our well-wishes for a swift recovery to those who have sustained injuries. Let us remain mindful that we are all part of the same human family, united under the presence of God," he remarked.
"Recognizing that Adam and Eve are our shared forebearers, there exists a profound need to foster stronger bonds of amity and understanding amongst us."
With a sincere heart, he beseeched that the souls of the departed find eternal peace, and that those who are injured may swiftly mend. In these challenging times, let us stand united, offering support, and solace to one another.
"May we all find the strength and serenity bestowed upon us by the divine."
The Zaria Central Mosque holds immense historical and spiritual significance, having served as a sacred place of worship for over 150 years. We acknowledge the deep-seated attachment and emotional resonance that the Muslim community maintains with this hallowed space, and we share in their sorrow and mourning.
Pastor Yohanna Buru conveyed his gratitude to Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the Emir of Zazzau, for his compassionate leadership in mobilizing his subjects for rescue efforts, extending aid to the injured, and offering solace to the victims' families.
He fervently appealed to both Muslims and Christians to consistently offer prayers for peace and stability within the nation.
Top Islamic scholars from 19 northern states of Nigeria visited Zaria and among them is Sheikh Yahaya jingir from jos and sheikh Bala Tijjani kalarawe from Kano and sheikh Yusuf sambo Rigachikum of kaduna state visited the mosque and the palace to win Muslims ummah all over the world
Chief Imam of Zazzau Emirate Alhaji Dalhatu kasimu expressed delight over the visit to the mosque by pastor Yohanna Buru
He appreciates the visit and urged pastor yohanna to continue spread the gospel of peace and harmony
Adding that this visit would sthrenthening good relationship between Christians and Muslims across the country
Similarly, The emir of zazzau ambassador Nuhu Bamali expressed delight over the visit by pastor Yohanna Buru to his palace with other pastor's to condole with him and the entire people of zazzau over the incidence that occurred.He wish all the pastors safe journey back home and appreciate their visit