By: Mayen Etim
KADUNA, North-West Nigeria – The General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, Kaduna, Pastor (Dr.) Yohanna Buru, alongside other Christian leaders in the region, on Sunday expressed their condolences to the Muslim Ummah following the death of Alhaji Jafaru Makarfi.
Makarfi, a renowned Islamic leader, public servant, and former chairman of Jama’atul Nasrul Islam (JNI) Kaduna state, passed away in Kaduna at age 93, leaving behind a legacy of peace-building and interreligious harmony.
In their condolence messages, Pastor Buru and the Christian clergy extended their sympathies to the Muslim community in Kaduna State and beyond.
They described the late Makarfi as an icon of peace who dedicated his life to resolving religious conflicts and fostering cooperation between Christians and Muslims and other faith based organizations for peace and stability in Kaduna and the region at large.
Reflecting on late Makarfi’s impact, Pastor Buru said: “Kaduna has lost a great icon in peace-building and interreligious harmony,” while recalling how Makarfi alongside other influential Christian leaders like Elder Saidu Dogo, had mentored him in promoting peaceful coexistence and strengthening relationships between the two faiths.
He added that Makarfi’s contributions were not only limited to peace-building efforts but also encompassed significant roles in public service, including his tenure as a commissioner in the defunct Kaduna State.
Pastor George John, in his tribute, described late Makarfi as a man of peace who had trained many in the ways of interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
He acknowledged the wisdom and lessons he had gained from the late leader on how to navigate religious differences with grace and understanding for peace and unity in the land
Another Pastor, Joel Zigo, of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, urged both Muslims and Christians in the state to honor Makarfi’s legacy by continuing to live in peace and harmony.