Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has stated that his administration operates with neutrality to ensure all religious groups in the state are fully accommodated, emphasizing that no faith is marginalized.
The governor made this known on Friday during a visit by members of the Judaism Fellowship Initiative, led by Mr. Clive Obe, President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council, London.
Responding to their concerns about elections being conducted on Saturdays in Nigeria, Governor Alex Otti noted that altering the national election timetable is challenging, as various religions observe different days of worship.
Alex Otti said elections are held once every four years, adding that Sabbath observers could vote after service, pending a national decision on the matter.
Governor Otti noted that his administration keeps religion out of governance to avoid conflicts often triggered by religious or ethnic divides, pointing out that he became aware of the Jewish community’s presence in Abia following their engagement.
The Governor assured members of the Judaism Fellowship Initiative of equal support from his administration and clarified that the state government does not fund religious activities, except pilgrimages.
On their request for land, Otti said the process is open to all groups through formal application and payment of statutory fees.
Earlier, the President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council, London, Mr Clive Obe, described Governor Otti as a bridge builder and expressed confidence in his commitment to promoting understanding among faith communities.
Mr Obe noted that the Jewish Fellowship Initiative, JFI, the umbrella body for Jewish communities in the country, had also expressed concern over elections being held on Saturdays, which makes participation difficult for Jews who observe the Sabbath.
He appealed to the government for a plot of land in Abia for a Jewish Centre, financial support similar to that extended to Christian and Muslim pilgrims, and the appointment of a government officer to liaise with the Jewish community.
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
