Youths from the 19 Northern states and Abuja, under the aegis of The Arewa Youth Forum (AYF), have hailed Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for rebuilding and handing over two mosques to the Muslim community in Nsukka.

Recall that the two mosques located in Nsukka local government area were destroyed by hoodlums last year during a protest in the area, leading to tension and apprehension between the two main religion in the area.

The AYF in a statement said that they were pleased with the Governor’s effort in striking a balance between the Muslims and Christian community in the state.

The statement signed by the National President of AYF, Gambo Ibrahim Gujungu also recalled that Gov. Ugwuanyi, immediately after the crisis in the area dispatched the Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Hon. Cosmas Ugwueze and the security agencies to scene to restore peace and normalcy, which resulted to no loss of life in the crisis.

The statement also said, “We were pleased with the leadership qualities of the Governor who directed the immediate rebuilding of the two affected mosques and consequently detailed the council chairman to liaise with the leadership of the Muslim community in Nsukka, to redesign and construct new mosques for them.”

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According to the group, the rebuilding to the Mosques goes a long way to show the leadership qualities of the Governor, his faith in the diversity of Nigeria and a shining light in the present situation where Nigeria is battling so many challenges of identity.

The Forum also appreciated the governor for his efforts in bringing the Christians and Muslims in the state and for sustaining the existing peace in Enugu State, adding that the youths are ready to partner with him towards a robust cordial relationship among all those residents in the state.

AYF said “the Governor has shown high level of compassion, tolerance, resilience, dedication, commitment, bridge-building spirit and has exhibited sincere passion for which we have known for.”

The statement further said that “Governor Ugwuanyi has shown that he is a father figure to all residents of the state irrespective of tribe and religion, a bridge-builder and believer in the Nigerian project.”

AYF also commended the Chairman of Nsukka local government for the role he played during the crisis, saying that he demonstrated wisdom and maturity in calming nerves and prevented the situation from escalating.