Raise Your Voices Against Terrorism, Kidnapping, Banditry, Tinubu Tells Religious Leaders

President Bola Tinubu has called on religious and spiritual leaders across Nigeria to consistently speak out against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the misuse of religion to justify violence.

Tinubu made the call on Sunday at the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani in Kano, where he was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

The President said religious leaders occupy an important position in the fight against violent extremism and have a responsibility to challenge attempts to manipulate faith for destructive purposes.

He urged religious institutions and networks to strengthen their involvement in peace education, religious literacy, scholarship and the moral development of young Nigerians.

According to Tinubu, religious leaders should use their influence to promote justice, responsibility and compassion while encouraging peaceful approaches to resolving grievances.

“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 called for stronger efforts by religious institutions to educate young people and prevent them from being drawn towards violence and extremism.

“Your institutions and networks must become stronger in the advocacy for peace education, religious literacy, scholarship and the formation of upright young men and women.”

Tinubu said spiritual leaders also have a responsibility to hold political leaders to the principles of justice, accountability and compassion while reminding citizens that grievances should not become justification for violence or lawlessness.

“You must also remind political leaders of justice, responsibility and compassion, while reminding citizens that legitimate grievances must never become permission for lawlessness or violence.”

The President further stressed the sanctity of human life, saying violence against innocent people cannot be legitimately presented as an act of service to God.

“Above all, our spiritual fathers must continue to teach that no genuine service to Allah is advanced by destroying the innocent human life that Allah has made sacred.”

Tinubu’s remarks come amid continuing efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to tackle terrorism, kidnapping and banditry in different parts of the country.

The President maintained that religious leaders can play a significant role in promoting peaceful coexistence and countering narratives that seek to exploit religion as a justification for violence.