The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), an NGO, has urged Christians to use Christmas celebration to pray for the return of peace to the dark spots in the country. MURIC stated this in a statement issued by its Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola in Ibadan on Wednesday.
The statement quoted Akintola as appealing to religious leaders to set good examples by closing ranks and by encouraging interfaith dialogue.
Akintola said MURIC had been praying for the safety and well-being of all adherents of Christian faith before, adding that it would do so during and after Christmas.
As usual, we reaffirm our goodwill for our Christian neighbours and assure all foreigners in the country of our commitment to their safety and welfare. Essentially, we hate and reject the killings taking place in the North East and other places in the country. Islam is not a racist religion.
"MURIC, therefore, invites Nigerians to love, to tolerate and to forgive one another. We need these three qualities (love, tolerance and forgiveness) in order to build a peaceful and progressive nation.’’
Akintola urged politicians to avoid whipping up religious sentiment during electioneering campaigns.
"We remind prospective voters to shun religious prejudice and ethnic jingoism. Picking candidates on the basis of credibility is the mark of an enlightened electorate..’’
He, therefore, urged both Christians and Muslims to be God-fearing and called leaders to lead with the fear of God too.
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