The Muslim Community of Lagos State has called on Nigerians to promote unity, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary. In a statement, the community urged citizens to uphold peace and stability, warning against religious intolerance, tribal sentiments, and divisive tendencies. This appeal was made by the President of the Muslim Community of Lagos State, Hon. Muhammad Bello Oyinlomo Danmole, and its Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Jubril Folami.
The community emphasized that Nigeria's strength lies in its diversity of ethnicities, cultures, languages, and religious beliefs. They stressed that this diversity should be regarded as a source of strength and shared national identity, rather than a basis for division or hostility. The community cited Islamic teachings, which promote justice, compassion, and peaceful coexistence. They referenced Qur’an 49:13, which calls on humanity to know one another despite differences in peoples and tribes.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State also referenced Qur’an 5:8, which warns against allowing hatred of a people to lead to injustice. Additionally, they cited the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, including the hadith that “a Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the Muslims are safe.” The community believes these teachings provide practical principles for building a peaceful and inclusive society.
The group called on leaders, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, and political office holders, to promote responsible communication and interfaith understanding. They urged Lagosians to strengthen friendships and neighborliness, respect one another’s religious practices, and protect the rights and dignity of all residents. The community also encouraged citizens to resolve disagreements through dialogue and lawful means.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State renewed their commitment to working with government and stakeholders to sustain peaceful coexistence and advance the collective wellbeing of Lagos State and Nigeria. They called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to nation-building, integrity, patriotism, and service to humanity. The community also urged leaders to promote fairness, good governance, and policies that foster peace and social welfare.
The community congratulated Nigerians on the Independence Anniversary and prayed for Allah’s guidance and protection for the nation, its leaders, and citizens. They expressed hope for enduring peace, stability, and prosperity. The statement concluded with a message of unity, emphasizing that Nigeria's diversity is its strength and peace is a shared treasure that must be protected by all.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State's statement reflects the importance of promoting peace and unity in Nigeria. As the country celebrates its 66th anniversary, citizens are encouraged to work together towards a harmonious and prosperous society. The community's efforts to promote Islamic values and peaceful coexistence are ongoing, and they continue to support initiatives that foster a culture of tranquility and respect.
Key points
- The Muslim Community of Lagos State urges Nigerians to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
- The community cautions against hate speech, ethnic discrimination, and divisive tendencies.
- Islamic teachings promote justice, compassion, and peaceful coexistence, and provide practical principles for building a peaceful society.
