The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has called on religious leaders across Nigeria to preach and promote ethno-religious tolerance while accommodating opposing views as part of efforts to strengthen peaceful coexistence in the country.
The monarch made the appeal while hosting the National Chairman of JIBWIS Society, Sheikh Abdullahi Balalau, during a courtesy visit.
Oba Owoade condemned the instigation of hatred in the guise of religious practice, describing it as a negative trend. He urged clerics to embrace the gospel of friendship, love, and sincerity, which he described as “the vehicle that will take mankind to the abode of peace and security.”
He further stressed that accepting the message of salvation is a voluntary and personal choice, noting that those who seek to spread the knowledge of God must do so without resorting to violence.
He said, “Neither the Quran nor the Bible encourages the deployment of coercion or violence as a means of evangelising unbelievers. Killing in the name of religion does not bring glory to God. It is against His command and will never receive His blessing. What God wants us to extend to unbelievers is love and the message of full and free salvation, and not bodily harm or death. Nigerians also have a duty to work for all that promotes peace and harmonious living. Religion need not be the leading cause of death.
“In a country as diverse and populous as Nigeria, where over 200 million citizens adhere to a tapestry of faiths, Islam, Christianity, and African traditional religions, religion is not just a private matter but a potent force shaping national identity, politics, culture, and even the economy.”
Oba Owoade, who extolled the virtue of Dr. Balalau as a religious leader who is unflinching in his commitment to peace through preaching and teaching across the country and beyond, described him as “deeply pious”.
“I have heard a lot about you, especially your preaching for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. I personally witnessed one of your preaching at the wedding ceremony of a serving Senator in Kaduna. It was interesting and laudable.”
While appreciating the visit, Alaafin pledged his support and cooperation to the JIBWIS leader for the unity, peace, and progress of the country.
Earlier in his address, Dr. Balalau, who was accompanied by other members of the National Executive Committee, amid a large crowd of followers, said he was elated to meet with the Alaafin.
He said, “I am indeed glad and count myself very lucky to be with the monarch whose reign is uniquely divine. Moving closer to him is a gift of blessings and good fortune. He (Alaafin) is absolutely endowed by Allah (God).”‘
Dr. Balalau advised the Alaafin to always put his demands before God, including divine wisdom and knowledge, adding that whatever he requests will be granted by God.
While noting that leadership is a trust and that people can only obey the paramount ruler for his passion, honesty, and sincerity of purpose, the renowned Islamic scholar advised the monarch to continue to show mercy to the people and rule with justice.
Dr. Balalau, who expressed heartfelt appreciation for the honour accorded him by the Alaafin, whom he referred to as ‘’a very great monarch, prayed for good health, divine protection, and long life for Oba Owoade, as well as unity, peace, and prosperity for the ancient town, the state, and the country as a whole.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
