Chief Umar Gani Sarki Karmo (Gormo III), is the Degachi (village head) of Karmo Sabo in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). In this press interview with our correspondent, Abba -Eku Onyeka over recently, he sees the coincidence of 2026 fasting period of Christians and Muslims the same day as a call for interfaith unity and peace, even as he calls for love among believers, saying every religion preaches peace. Excerpts.
Qtn: Can you please introduce yourself?
Ans: My name is Umar Gani, Sarki Karmo (Gormo III), the Degachi (village head) of Karmo Sabo in Abuja, the FCT.
Qtn: As a dedicated Muslim, how do you view the coincidence of the 2026 Islamic and Christian fasting periods, which started the same day?
Ans: I see it as a call for unity, peace, and love between religious bodies. It tells us that God wants us to understand togetherness and live in peace.
Qtn: How do you think this coincidence can promote interfaith understanding?
Ans: It will reduce the rate of committing sins and other bad activities. It’s a blessing for every believer, and we should come together to promote peace in the country.
Qtn: What is your message to the government regarding this coincidence?
Ans: I advise the government to include religious laws in the Constitution to promote peace and unity, and to encourage interfaith dialogue.
Qtn: How do you promote peace and unity between Muslims and Christians in your community?
Ans: I allow Christian crusades in my playground and advise them to respect our prayer times. I also encourage Muslims to respect other religions and live in peace.
Qtn: What advice would you give to followers of different religions?
A6: I advise them to read the Quran and the Bible, and to understand the teachings of their religions. It’s essential to read the holy books to guide us.
Qtn: How do you view the division within religions?
Ans: It’s a problem, and we should strive for unity. Our Prophet said the only true path is the one that follows God’s teachings.
Qtn: What is your stance on using music in worship?
A8: It’s not allowed in Islam, and we should worship God with respect and dignity.
Qtn: What advice would you give to the government regarding religious harmony?
Ans: As I said earlier, I advise the government to include religious laws in the Constitution and promote interfaith dialogue.
Qtn: As the village head of Karmo, how do you view the frequent fire outbreak in Karmo markets?
Ans: It’s a test from God, and we should be patient ans we should continue to pray to God, who knows it all.
Qtn: What lessons can we learn from the coincidence of the fasting periods?
Ans: It’s a call for unity and peace among all human beings. We should read the holy books, respect and understand each other’s religions.
Qrn: What is your final message?
Ans: I urge everyone to promote peace, unity, and love, and to read the holy books to guide us, as well as pray to Allah to give us all it takes to understand the contents of the holy books.
Qtn: Thank you, Your Highness, can you elaborate on the importance of reading holy books?
Ans: Reading holy books guides us and helps us understand each other’s religions. It’s essential for unity and peace.
Qtn: How can we achieve interfaith understanding?
Ans: By reading holy books, respecting each other’s religions, and promoting peace and unity.
Qtn: What is the key to achieving peace in Nigeria?
Ans: The key is to promote interfaith dialogue,bas I said above, respect each other’s religions, and include religious laws in the Constitution. This will go a long way.
