President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the communal violence in Kasuwan Magani in Kaduna State.
Reacting to the violent clashes which claimed at least 55 lives, he described the frequent resort to bloodshed by Nigerians over misunderstandings that can be resolved peacefully as worrisome.
“No culture and religion support the disregard for the sanctity of life,” President Buhari was quoted as saying in a statement issued Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Garba Shehu.
He added, “Peaceful coexistence is necessary for the progress of any society and its wellbeing.”
The President noted that without communal harmony, the environment for the conduct of everyday businesses in the country would be impossible to achieve.
He explained, “Violence cannot be an alternative to peace. On the contrary, reliance on violence leads to ultimate self-destruction.
“Violence is an ill wind that blows nobody any good. Embracing peace is a necessity.”
President Buhari further commended the Kaduna State government for its rapid response to the crisis.
He also appealed to community leaders to engage in regular dialogue to nip imminent crises in the bud, while admonishing the people to develop the spirit of tolerance and patience at all times.
The President’s comments come a day after Governor Nasir El-Rufai told reporters that no fewer than 55 bodies were recovered after the violence in Kajuru Local Government Area of the state.
The clash, which left several others injured, broke out on Thursday after some youths attacked the market.
The incident was said to have snowballed into a crisis between two youth groups of different religion.
In February 2018, several shops, vehicles and other valuables were destroyed during a clash between youths of different religions.
