By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade has urged religious leaders to preach, promote ethno-religious tolerance and accommodate opposing views, as parts of the mechanisms to deepen peaceful co-existence and harmony in the country.
He gave the charge when he played host to the National Chairman of JIBWIS Society, Sheikh Abdullahi Balalau, who paid him a courtesy visit.
Oba Owoade said instigation of hatred in the name of religious practice by religious organizations is a negative attitude, adding that it is high time religious leaders preached the genuine gospel of friendship and sincere love.
“This is the vehicle that will take mankind to the abode of peace and security”, he said
While pointing out that the decision to accept the message of salvation is voluntary and personal, the monarch stressed that those who seek to bring others to the knowledge of God need not enlist the appurtenances of violence.
He said, “Neither Quran nor the Bible encourages the deployment of coercion or violence as a means of evangelising unbelievers. Killing in the name of religion does not bring glory to God. It is against His command and will never receive His blessing. What God wants us to extend to unbelievers is love and the message of full and free salvation and not bodily harm or death. Nigerians also have a duty to work for all that promotes peace and harmonious living. Religion need not be the leading cause of death.
“In a country as diverse and populous as Nigeria, where over 200 million citizens adhere to a tapestry of faiths, Islam, Christianity, and African traditional religions, religion is not just a private matter but a potent force shaping national identity, politics, culture, and even the economy.”
Oba Owoade who extolled the virtue of Dr. Balalau as a religious leader who is unflinching in his commitment to peace through preaching and teaching across the country and beyond , described him as “eeply pious”.
“I have heard a lot about you, especially your preaching for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. I personally witnessed one of your preachings at the wedding ceremony of a serving Senator in Kaduna. It was interesting and laudable.”
While appreciating the visit, Alaafin pledged his support and cooperation to the JIBWIS leader for unity, peace and progress of the country.
Earlier in his address, Dr. Balalau, who was accompanied by other members of the National Executive Committee, amid large crowd of followers said he was elated to meet one on one with the Alaafin.
He said, “’I am indeed glad and count myself very lucky to be with the monarch whose reign is uniquely divined. Moving closer to him is a gift of blessing and good fortunes. He (Alaafin) is absolutely endowed by Allah (God).”‘
Dr. Balalau advised the Alaafin to always put his demands before God, including divine wisdom and knowledge adding that whatever he requests will be granted by God.
While noting that leadership is a trust and that people can only obey the paramount ruler for his passion, honesty and sincerity of purpose, the renowned Islamic scholar advised the monarch to continue to show mercy to the people and rule with justice.
Dr. Balalau who expressed heart-felt appreciation for the honour accorded him by the Alaafin, who he referred to as ‘’a very great monarch’’, prayed for good health, divine protection, and long life for Oba Owoade, as well as unity, peace and prosperity for the ancient town, the state and the country as a whole.
