Fani-Kayode: Uba Sani, God-sent to restore peace in Kaduna

Former Minister of Aviation Femi Fani-Kayode has described Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani as a “God-sent leader” whose emergence was a divine intervention to restore peace, unity, and justice in the state.

Fani-Kayode stated this at the 35th Anniversary Synod of the Diocese of Kafanchan, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), in Kaduna State on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

The former minister said Sani’s administration had begun to heal the wounds of mistrust, discrimination, and insecurity that affected the state in the past.

“The governor you have today came as a consequence of prayer. I have known him for many years. He is not an ordinary person,” he said.

Fani-Kayode recalled that Kaduna State once faced severe religious tension, adding that Christians were marginalised and victims of violence, especially during the 2016 Christmas Day attacks in parts of Southern Kaduna.

Fani-Kayode said about 800 people were killed in four local government areas, describing the incident as a “gruesome massacre” that left lasting scars on the Christian community.

Fani-Kayode said such experiences strengthened Christians to resist oppression peacefully and to continue trusting in God.

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“To be a Christian is not to be a second-class citizen or a slave. It is to be a child of the living God,” the former minister stated.

He commended Sani for promoting inclusiveness and religious harmony since assuming office, stating that one of his first actions was to bridge divisions between Christians and Muslims in Kaduna State.

Fani-Kayode said: “He kept his promise by ensuring Kaduna belongs to both Christians and Muslims.

“He also established the Kaduna Elders Forum, where Christians are now included.”

The former minister said peace had returned to Southern Kaduna under Sani’s leadership, noting that the killings and hostilities witnessed in the past had stopped.

He also commended governor for showing respect to the Christian faith, recalling an instance when Sani removed his cap during a Church service as a sign of reverence.

Fani-Kayode urged the residents of Kaduna State to sustain the peace and continue promoting interfaith understanding.

Fani-Kayode also called for continued unity between both faiths, stressing that the majority of Muslims and Christians in Nigeria desire peaceful coexistence.

The Star