The Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has cautioned political office holders and traditional rulers against allowing foreign interests to use religion to sow division in Nigeria. He delivered the warning at the opening of a three-day conference for religious, political and traditional leaders, organised by the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, themed “Strengthening Peaceful Co-existence among Monarchs, Religious and Political Leaders.”
Represented by Lukman Lawal, Special Adviser on Finance to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Gbajabiamila said international actors were exploiting religious sentiments to destabilise the country. He urged religious leaders to resist attempts to use them as instruments of disunity.
“At a time like this, we can see international politics trying to use religion to divide us as a nation,” he said. “We have lived peacefully for many years, and Christianity and Islam have coexisted harmoniously. Yes, we have security challenges, but we can overcome them. Do not use religion to worsen division or chaos.”
He also encouraged religious leaders to continue promoting hope and acknowledge President Tinubu’s efforts to address Nigeria’s challenges, urging them to pray for the President’s success.
Speaking at the event, the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Sheikh AbdulRasaq AbdulAzeez Ishola, said the conference aimed to reinforce the message of peaceful coexistence as taught by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He dismissed claims of genocide in Nigeria as false, noting the country’s long history of interfaith harmony.
The President of the League, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere, described peace as a foundation for development and emphasised the need for unity as the 2027 elections approach. He called for credible elections and the emergence of leaders committed to bridge-building.
In his keynote address, Professor Noah Lawal-Jinadu of Lagos State University highlighted that Muslims, too, have been victims of arbitrary killings in Nigeria. He warned against divisive narratives, saying such tactics have been used globally to destabilise nations, fuel extremist groups, and undermine sovereignty.
“Our role as spiritual and intellectual heirs of the Prophets is to advise rulers with courage and wisdom,” he said. “These divisive narratives are tools used by foreign interests to create instability and exploit nations.”
The conference continues with leaders reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity, and responsible leadership.
