President Bola Tinubu has called on religious and spiritual leaders across Nigeria to intensify their efforts against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the misuse of religion to justify violence.
Tinubu made the call on Sunday in Kano during the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani, where he was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The President said religious leaders had a critical role to play in supporting the government’s efforts to curb insecurity and prevent the exploitation of religion to promote violence and extremism.
Tinubu’s administration has continued to strengthen security operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups, while also emphasising intelligence-led operations, improved coordination among security agencies and measures aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity.
Speaking in Kano, the President urged religious institutions and networks to complement these efforts by promoting peace, tolerance and responsible citizenship, particularly among young people.
He called on religious leaders to use their influence to educate their followers and speak firmly against the killing of innocent people and criminal activities carried out under the guise of religion.
“Your voices must be raised consistently against the murder of innocent people, against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the misuse of religion to justify cruelty,” Tinubu said.
The President also urged religious institutions to strengthen peace education, religious literacy, scholarship and moral development programmes aimed at preparing young Nigerians to become responsible members of society.
He said religious leaders should equally encourage political leaders to uphold justice, responsibility and compassion, while urging citizens not to resort to violence in addressing legitimate grievances.
“Legitimate grievances must never become permission for lawlessness or violence,” he said.
Tinubu further stressed that no religious teaching could justify the destruction of innocent lives, urging spiritual leaders to consistently promote the sanctity of human life.
“No genuine service to Allah is advanced by destroying the innocent human life that Allah has made sacred,” the President said.
He urged religious leaders to work closely with government and other stakeholders in strengthening social cohesion and creating an environment where young people could resist extremist ideologies and contribute positively to national development.
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