The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) popularly known as Shi’ites has acknowledged Christmas as a day for festivities, friendliness and unity.
The movement disclosed this on Monday when it joined Christians at a Christmas Service at St Joseph Catholic Church, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State.
The group’s leader, Prof Isah-Hassan Mshelgaru, described the development as a move to strengthen religious harmony and unity between religious groups.
He added that joining Christian faithful to mark Christmas was meant to renew hope for unity among Muslims, Christians and other religions.
He explained that their decision to attend the church service was to strengthen the relationship between the two faith groups, while affirming that Islam and Christianity were revered faiths with more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s population as adherents.
He said; “When other faithful unite with the two faith groups, it means the whole of Nigeria is united.
“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.
“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.”
The parish priest, Most Revd Isak Augustine, had earlier 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.
Meanwhile, the group also presented gifts to the Church. (SaharaReporters)
