Ukorebi Esien | August 26, 2026
CALABAR — The Cross River State Government has expressed willingness to consider the request by the Muslim community for land to establish a dedicated cemetery in the state.
The Commissioner for Lands, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, disclosed this on Tuesday during the Eid-el-Maulud celebration at the Central Mosque, Calabar, where he represented the state government.
Ekpang said the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu recognised the importance of addressing the needs of all religious communities in the state, assuring the Muslim faithful that their request would receive government attention.
He said the government had already supported the Muslim community through interventions in some of its facilities and would continue to work with its members to address issues affecting them.
“We will continue to look at the issues affecting the Muslim community, including the request for land for a cemetery,” Ekpang said.
The commissioner described the Central Mosque as a home for all and reaffirmed the government's commitment to sustaining the cordial relationship between the Christian and Muslim communities in Cross River.
He said the peaceful coexistence enjoyed by residents of different faiths in the state was a reflection of the administration's commitment to inclusiveness and protection of all citizens, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
According to him, differences in religion, language and cultural practices should not divide the people, stressing that “humanity remains one.”
Ekpang urged the Muslim community to continue supporting peace and peaceful coexistence, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
He said the government would continue to promote an environment where residents could freely practise their faith and contribute to the development of the state.
The Chief Imam of the Central Mosque, Calabar Road, and Chairman of the Cross River State Pilgrims Board, Imam Kabeer Olowolayemo, had earlier called on Muslims and Christians to promote love, kindness and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking on the theme of the celebration, “Islam and Neighbourhood,” Olowolayemo said the teachings and lifestyle of Prophet Muhammad offered enduring lessons on respect, compassion and care for one's neighbours.
He urged Nigerians to approach the 2027 elections with peaceful mindsets, stressing that elections should be viewed as an opportunity to contribute to national development rather than a trigger for conflict.
The Eid-el-Maulud celebration brought together Muslim and Christian clerics, politicians, government officials, business leaders and other members of the public, highlighting the spirit of interfaith solidarity and peaceful coexistence in Cross River State.
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