In a joint statement issued by the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Daniel Okoh, and the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, NIREC expressed concern over the rise of hate speeches during and after the 2023 elections.
The co-chairmen of NIREC expressed their hope for every Nigerian to embrace the true essence of their respective religions, as this would contribute to the promotion of religious values that can positively transform the nation.
“Given that most politicians in Nigeria practice one religion or the other, the Christian and Muslim politicians should proclaim the fear and love of God by caring for the common good and welfare of the citizens", he said.
NIREC has urged religious leaders to resist the manipulation of religion for political purposes, emphasizing the potential for such manipulation to lead to chaos.
In a statement, NIREC strongly condemned the actions of politicians who exploit religion as a disguise to further their own political interests. They called on political leaders to use their platforms to promote peace, unity, and harmony, refraining from making statements that could escalate tensions in the already heated political climate.
NIREC emphasized the importance of politicians conducting themselves with the fear of God, maintaining dignity, honor, and decorum, and rejecting divisive and sectarian politics. They also appealed to the public to respect the ongoing legal processes related to the election outcomes.
NIREC emphasized that no religion holds superiority over another, highlighting the principle of equality among religions.
While affirming that Nigeria is a multi-religious state under God, the organisation called on religious leaders to resist political manipulation of religion that could lead to anarchy.
“Weaponizing religion for selfish, political gains is capable of causing religious conflict in Nigeria.
“NIREC therefore condemns, in strongest terms, the statements that give the impression that one religion is superior to the other. NIREC affirms that Nigeria is a multi-religious state under God.
“Nigerians must continue to be patriotic, law- abiding and peace-loving and must oppose all acts of machinations and manipulations by leaders who are using religion to tear the nation apart.
