PanNigerianNews 
The Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State, Mr Musa Garba, on Tuesday met with Christian leaders to seek their support in addressing the security challenges in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Christian leaders were led by the state Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. John Hayab.
Musa said that the interaction was to get the support of the clerics and include their inputs in the efforts being made ensure peace in the state.
According to him, security is everybody’s business, and the religious leaders are critical stakeholders in ensuring a peaceful society.
The commissioner of police added that the engagement was to establish relationship between the Police and the Christian leaders as part of community policing initiative.
He assured that the police would remain committed to its duties of securing lives and properties, and urged them to always provide useful information to checkmate criminals in any part of the state.
Responding, the CAN chairman welcomed the initiative and pledged their support in ensuring peace and stability in Kaduna state.
“We want to be part of contributing to security in our state,” Hayab said, adding that the initiative was a huge departure from the past when faith leaders were relegated to the background.
According to him, about 23 pastors were killed in the last four years in the state, while over 200 churches had to shut down due to insecurity.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would bring about a change to the security situation in the state.
Hayab thanked the police commissioner for bringing them on board and assured that all the concerns raised by the clerics were everyday realities they were facing.
NAN reports that no fewer than 450 pastors from across the state attended the meeting.
