CAN Urges Islamic Council to Caution Extremists against Violence

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) to caution those it described as extremists, who are not well-grounded in the faith and whose actions are giving Islam a bad name.

It also felicitated with the NSCIA and all Muslims as they celebrated this year’s Ramadan.
In a congratulatory message yesterday by its General-Secretary, Rev. Daramola Joseph, CAN prayed that the aftermath of this year’s Ramadan would usher in peace and unity into the country.

It said: “We are not unaware that your fasting was in obedience to the divine directive: ‘O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous’ — Surat Al-Baqarah 2:183.

“May God answer all your godly prayers offered throughout the month.
“We appeal to the leadership of NSCIA to continue to advise and caution the extremists who are not well-grounded in the faith and whose wicked and ungodly actions are giving bad names to Islam.

“It is trite to know that no godly person will engage in the promotion of violence, kidnapping, banditry and terrorism or identify with the perpetrators.”

CAN said it recognised and appreciated the ‘efforts’ being made by the police and other security agencies towards ensuring peaceful celebrations.

It said it would not relent in promoting religious tolerance, peace and unity in collaboration with NSCIA.
According to it, “We remain partners in peace-making. Let us continue working together for peace, unity and progress of the country

“May God put His fears into the hearts of our leaders to promptly do what is right, justly, and godly. We also pray that those who have compromised and are compromising the security in the country will have a change of mind and those who refused to change will be exposed and sanctioned by the Almighty God Himself.”

The Chairman of CAN in Kano State, Rev. Adeolu Adeyemo, also urged Nigerians to have hope in God and not give up on issues bedevilling the country.
In a message to Muslims in the state, Adeyemo expressed the hope that the challenges facing the country will soon be over.

“Our dear Muslim Ummah, it is our sincere prayers that God will rescue all those in the kidnappers’ den and the shedding of young innocent blood will come to an end in Nigeria,” he stated.