Document
The deadly attack on the Great Mosque of Kano on Friday 28 November is a salutary reminder that both Muslim and Christian communities are threatened by, and suffering from, the extremist violence which is impacting the lives of so many of the people of northern Nigeria. There is a particular evil in any attack on people at a place of worship. My sympathies go to those who have been bereaved or wounded in this shocking attack.
I also express my support to the Emir of Kano, H.E. Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi, as he seeks to lead the community forward following this tragic event. During a visit to Nigeria in 2012, jointly led by the World Council of Churches and the Royal Jordanian Aal al Bayt Institute, we, Christians and Muslims together, had the honour of meeting the Emir’s predecessor H.E. Abo Bayero and were made very aware of the important and constructive role being played by the Emirate of Kano both in inter-religious relations and in challenging corruption in government and society. I continue to offer my prayers for the Nigerian people and nation, so full of potential, so wounded by violence and injustice.
Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit
WCC general secretary
