The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Barr. Adewole Adebayo has urged Nigerians to embrace peace and unity, stressing that without these values, individuals cannot truly practice their religions or live harmoniously.
Speaking in Jos while breaking fast with the SDP Muslim community, Adebayo highlighted the importance of mutual respect and coexistence among the country’s diverse religious groups.
He emphasized that “peace is vital for Muslims to practice their faith. Only in a peaceful environment can Muslims attend congregational prayers at the mosque or observe their religious duties without fear. Similarly, Christians also require peace to attend church services and worship freely”.
He stressed that religious practices should not be hindered by chaos or insecurity, as peace is essential for both religious and societal growth.
He called on all Nigerians, whether Muslim, Christian, or of any other faith, to embrace one another in unity. He reminded the people that peace is not just an abstract concept but a necessary foundation for achieving development and progress in society.
Without peace, he argued, there can be no meaningful advancement, either in religion or in national governance.
The 2023 SDP presidential candidate further emphasized that Islam and Christianity both preach peace at their core.
He urged both Muslims and Christians to practice these values, as they are integral to fostering peaceful coexistence and understanding.
Adebayo also pointed out the day-to-day reality of peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. He observed that despite religious differences, people of various faiths frequently interact in marketplaces, where Muslim and Christian vendors trade side by side.
These everyday encounters, he argued, demonstrate that peaceful coexistence is not only possible but also vital for the nation’s prosperity.
The politician urged Nigerians to focus on the collective goal of peace and development, stressing that unity and determination will lead to the desired change in governance and the realization of a prosperous and peaceful society.
In his speech, the former Minister of Youth and Sports Development under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, Barr. Solomon Dalung also called on religious groups in Nigeria to foster peace and understanding among themselves.
Dalung emphasized that the country’s religious diversity should be celebrated rather than become a source of division.
He urged both Christian and Muslim leaders to work together in promoting harmony, tolerance, and mutual respect, stating that religious differences should never be an excuse for conflict.
Dalung further stressed that peace and unity are vital for the nation’s growth and prosperity, and that every Nigerian, regardless of their faith, has a role to play in ensuring that the country remains a peaceful and stable place for all.
Echezona Okafor.
