Stop using religion to disunite, Sanwo-Olu urges citizens

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on citizens of the state to oppose the attempt made by unscrupulous people to use religion to spread hate and disunity.

The governor made the call on Wednesday during the celebration of the 2022 International Day for Tolerance tagged, ‘The Role of Religion in Democratic Governance in Nigeria,’ held in Alausa, Ikeja.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Folashade Jaji, noted that it was important that citizens continued along the path of mutual respect in order to sustain the prevailing atmosphere of peace which is the foundation for growth and development. 

He said, “The major religions teach positive virtues such as love, honesty, integrity, transparency, accountability, decency, and respect, etc.  These virtues, if properly imbibed, will no doubt, impact positively on governance which will translate to improved welfare of the people.

“It must however become a cause for concern when religion becomes a tool in the hand, of unscrupulous people to fan the embers of disunity and chaos in our society to achieve a selfish end. We have a duty to resist any attempt to cause confusion, promote hatred and intolerance.”

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Mrs Mojisola Fashola urged political leaders to be tolerant of views that are considered to be at variance with their beliefs and socio-political leanings and advised all stakeholders to learn to respect such opposing views.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Olanrewaju Elegushi, called on religious institutions to educate the populace on their civic responsibilities.

“Our religious institutions have a great role to play in educating and enlightening the populace with regards to their civil responsibilities and obligations to national survival. Our pulpits must teach religious tolerance, respect for humanity, and peace,” he said.

In his lecture, the Professor of Theology at the Lagos State University, Dapo Asaju, tasked Christian leaders with the need to preach the undiluted truth and reverse the erosion of morality in society.

Similarly, the Imam at the Lagos Central Mosque, Dr Saheed Ahmad, reminded Muslims that righteousness, justice, equity and piety remain the hallmarks of Islam and they should always remember that they are not only accountable to the government but also to God.