By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has appealed to the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA)to caution extremists who are not grounded in the teachings of Islam to desist from acts capable of giving the religion a bad name.
The General Secretary of CAN, Barrister Joseph Daramola who made the plea in a statement on Thursday said, “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”.
Speaking further, the CAN scribe said, “We pray that the aftermath of this year Ramadan will usher in peace and unity into the country. We recognise and appreciate the ‘efforts’ that are being made by the Police and other security agencies towards ensuring peaceful celebrations. 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.
“CAN will not relent in promoting religious tolerance, peace and unity in our country in collaboration with NSCIA genuinely. We remain partners in peace making. Let us continue working together for peace, unity and progress of the country.
“Our heart goes to the families and friends of those who are bereaved especially as a result of senseless and unwarranted killings in the country. May God console and comfort them all”.
CAN also said it is rejoicing with the leadership of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and all Muslims in the country as they celebrate the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan.
According to the Christian body, “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”.