Muslim Community of Lagos Urges Unity, Religious Tolerance as Nigeria Marks 66th Independence
By KEMI KASUMU
It noted that Nigeria’s diversity in ethnicity, culture, language and religion should be regarded as a source of strength and a shared national identity rather than a basis for division, suspicion or hostility.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, calling for greater unity, peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and mutual respect among citizens.
The Community, in a statement issued on Thursday, October 1, 2026, urged Nigerians, particularly residents of Lagos State, to uphold values capable of strengthening peace, stability and development in the country.
The statement was jointly signed by the President of the Muslim Community of Lagos State, Hon. Muhammad Bello Oyinlomo Danmole, and its Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Jubril Folami.
It noted that Nigeria’s diversity in ethnicity, culture, language and religion should be regarded as a source of strength and a shared national identity rather than a basis for division, suspicion or hostility.
The Community cautioned against religious intolerance, tribal sentiments, ethnic discrimination, hate speech and other tendencies capable of threatening peaceful coexistence in Lagos State and Nigeria.
It also urged citizens to avoid inflammatory statements and provocative conduct that could undermine harmonious relationships among the country’s diverse religious and ethnic communities.
According to the statement, Islamic teachings strongly advocate justice, compassion, peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity.
It quoted the Qur’an, Surah Al-Hujurat 49:13, as saying: “O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may know one another. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you.”
The Community said the verse underscored the importance of equality, mutual understanding and respect irrespective of ethnic or social background.
It also cited Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:8, which states: “Do not let the hatred of a people lead you to injustice. Be just! That is closer to righteousness.”
The statement further referenced the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), including the hadith recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim that: “A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the Muslims are safe.”
The Community said the Prophet’s teachings also condemned tribal arrogance and prejudice, stressing that divisive appeals based on tribal partisanship were contrary to Islamic guidance.
It called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, political office holders, community associations, youth organisations and the media to promote responsible communication, interfaith understanding and constructive engagement.
The Community also urged Lagos residents to strengthen friendship and neighbourliness, respect one another’s religious practices, protect the rights and dignity of all residents, and resolve disagreements through dialogue, patience and lawful means.
As the country reflects on its journey since independence, the Muslim Community of Lagos State called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to nation-building, integrity, patriotism, justice and service to humanity.
It also urged leaders at all levels to promote fairness, good governance and accountability, as well as policies that advance peace, social welfare and equal opportunities.
The Community reaffirmed its readiness to work with government, religious institutions, traditional authorities and other stakeholders towards sustaining peaceful coexistence and advancing the collective wellbeing of Lagos State and Nigeria.
It said, “Our diversity is our strength, our unity is our responsibility, and our peace is a shared treasure that must be protected by all.”
The Community prayed for continued divine guidance for Nigeria’s leaders, protection for the nation and enduring peace, stability and prosperity.
