CAN Emphasises Interfaith Harmony, Religious Tolerance

The chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State, Rev Elisha Ogundiya, has stressed the need for unity, love and religious tolerance among Nigerians.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola De-Damak, at his Ibadan residence in Ikolaba, the newly appointed CAN chairman, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to interfaith unity and religious tolerance.

He reiterated the importance of sustained unity and religious tolerance between adherents of both faiths, noting that mutual respect and understanding remain critical factors for national stability, economic growth, and the overall development of the country.

The CAN chairman, who was accompanied by the association’s secretary and other executive members, expressed deep appreciation to the Aare Musulumi for his tremendous efforts and consistent support in promoting unity, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among Muslims and Christians across Yorubaland.

Responding, the Aare Musulumi described unity, love, religious tolerance and mutual respect between Muslims and Christians as non-negotiable.

He emphasised that in many families across the country, Muslims and Christians coexist as one, further underscoring the need to continually strengthen interfaith harmony.

Addressing the issue of insecurity, the Aare Musulumi cautioned against politicizing security challenges in Nigeria, stressing that both Muslims and Christians are victims of insecurity and terrorism.

He called for collective responsibility, unity, and religious tolerance in addressing the nation’s security challenges.

He also urged President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and other relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts towards ending insecurity in the country, adding that peace, harmony, and religious tolerance are essential foundations for sustainable growth and development.