ABUJA: Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Catholic Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Matthew Kukah, have emphasized the essential role of religious leaders in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy. They made this call during the National Peace Committee High Level Discourse on Religion and Democracy organized by The Kukah Centre, supported by the European Union.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akpabio, represented by Sen. Adams Oshiomole, highlighted the critical role religious leaders play in promoting democratic values and principles, providing necessary moral guidance to ensure democracy thrives. He acknowledged the dual nature of religion as a force for unity and division, stressing the importance of using it to foster understanding and respect among Nigeria’s diverse communities. Akpabio urged government officials, religious leaders, and civil society members to heed the National Peace Committee’s call for peaceful coexistence rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
The European Union Ambassa
dor-designate to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, expressed the EU’s commitment to supporting freedom of religion and belief both globally and nationally. Mignot outlined the EU’s efforts to promote democracy through its Support for Democratic Governance in Nigeria program, aimed at building strong, effective, and legitimate democratic institutions. He emphasized the importance of creating an environment where everyone can practice their religion freely without fear of persecution.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere, condemned the exploitation of religious sentiments for electoral gain and the direct involvement of religious institutions in partisan politics. He noted that these practices threaten democracy and lead to polarization among citizens. Abbas advocated for peace-building initiatives and dialogue among different faiths to build bridges and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic fabric.
Rev. Matthew Kukah pointed out that religion itself is not
the problem but rather the reliance on it to fill gaps in governance. He emphasized the need for Nigeria to establish a moral foundation for democracy, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by distorted interpretations of religion. Kukah called for the state to fulfill its constitutional responsibility of protecting citizens and ending religious and political violence.
His Royal Majesty, Dr. Daniel Ismaila, Hama Bachama, stressed the importance of establishing early warning signs to avert religious conflicts and advocated for strict adherence to the rule of law to deter violence. The Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Yamusa III, urged religious leaders to educate people on democratic principles, good governance, religious tolerance, and public accountability to address election-related issues and other challenges facing the country.