Sheikh Maraya Stresses On Muslim, Non – Muslim Peaceful Co-existence, Says, Islam ls A religion Of Peace

Sheikh Maraya Stresses On Muslim, Non – Muslim Peaceful Co-existence, Says, Islam ls A religion Of Peace

Zainab Tanimu

Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria

Sheikh Halliru Abdullahi Maraya a renowned Muslim Scholar, founder, Global Peace Foundation has called on the need for peaceful coexistence between the Muslims and non Muslims.

This call was made at the just concluded Authentic News Daily’s 10th anniversary lecture/awards celebration held at Arewa House Kaduna.

The Sheikh in his presentation on the theme of the event titled, “Religion As a Tool For Peace And National Unity, lamented the rate with which violence is being perpetrated in the society.

He cautioned against religious and tribal sentiments as he appealed for fear of Allah (God) in whatever one does because everyone shall give account for his/her actions.

Quoting verses from the Holy Quran to buttress his points. where Allah stressed

Quoted: If God had willed, He would have made you one nation; but He leads astray whom He will, and guides whom He will; and you will surely be questioned about the things you wrought.

Speaking from the Islamic perspective, he said the religion Islam is a religion of peace. It encourages unity and togetherness. He urged both Muslims and non Muslims to co-exist peacefully in the interest of peace and stability.

The Sheikh drew lessons from the examplary life of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (saw) where he co-existed peacefully with the non- Muslims, saying, in lslam, there is no compulsion in religion and that one can only convince.

He gave example of the messenger of islam, the Prophet (saw) who during his time allowed the Christian delegation to practice their religion.

Islam he added enjoins Muslims to respect everyone’s religion.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of respecting all faiths and those who do not persecute Muslims.

He pointing out that in the Quran Christians are not addressed as ‘arna’ but people of the book.

He blamed the extremists for using the religion of lslam to commit atrocities. Islam does not encourage violence, he stressed.

He urged everyone to develop the spirit of love and forgiveness as that is best in the sight of Allah saying, forgiveness is the cornerstone of lslam.

He gave some recommendations amongst which are, casting aspersion on others should be discouraged.
Good governance should be enhanced as it is very important to peace.

Both Muslim and Christian scholars had in their thought provoking lecture agreed that religion rather than being used as a tool for destruction should be seen as a uniting force.

Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab giving the Christian perception on the theme: “Religion As a Tool For Peace And National Unity” also called for the need for peaceful coexistence.

He urged Nigerians to embrace religion as a unifying force for national peace and cohesion rather than as a source of division and conflict.

“it is designed to foster love, reconciliation, and character formation and values which are indispensable to Nigeria’s stability and progress.

Explaining further,

“In Christianity, the life and teachings of Jesus Christ embody peacebuilding, empathy, and justice. Religion must not be used to incite hatred or sow discord. Rather, it should build bridges across ethnic and denominational divides,”

Peace he said cannot thrive in an environment where injustice and inequality persist. Quoting Amos 5:24, he said, “Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream,”

He warned that Nigeria’s fragile peace is continually threatened by religious and ethnic manipulation, urging clerics and traditional leaders to replace divisive rhetoric with a “language of reconciliation.”

Keynote address was by General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Rtd), Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff.

Honoured at the event were some dignitaries recognized for their contributions to the development of the society.

Amongst those honoured were, the national leader of the NNPP and former governor of Kano state. Senator Rabiu Kwonwaso who bagged the “Authentic Politician of the Year 2024” award while Kano state governor was honoured, with the “Authentic Humanitarian Governor of the Year 2024” in recognition of his transformative leadership, unwavering commitment to social justice, and numerous grassroots development initiatives.

Others were, also recognised.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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