Why I built mosque for Muslims in IDP camp — Adamawa pastor

A pastor in Adamawa State, Most Reverend Stephen Dami Mamza, has built a mosque for Muslims living as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Sangere Margi area of Gire Local Government Area.

The pastor, who is the chairman of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and fellow of the Catholic Church, said he built the mosque to strengthen ties between Muslims and Christians.

Speaking to BBC Hausa, the pastor said: “Even though the Muslims here are very few but we decided to build the mosque for them since they live there for over seven years.

“My church sponsored the whole project of the mosque. But a church, clinic and school were also built by a foundation from Germany and it’s for the over 80 houses community,” he said.

On whether he did it to attract the Muslims to Christianity, the pastor said: “If I want them to convert to Christianity, why should I build a mosque? So, this is for them as members of the community who are allowed to also practice their religion.”

He added that many of his Christian brothers misunderstood his intention to build the mosque but he later explained to them.

On his part, the Imam of the mosque, Mallam Musa Ali Burga, who is also an IDP, said: “It’s something that came to us as a surprise”, adding that the gesture will further boost their good relationship.

“This came to us like a dream but it’s a reality. We never expected it from the pastor but he did it. So, this is a welcome idea and it will add to our peaceful relationship. We thank him for this.”