The Presidency has warned against religious intolerance among the diverse socio-cultural groups in the country, saying politicisation of religion, as forbidden by the constitution, has no place in Nigeria.
Responding to the plea from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Monday with the federal government to speed up release of Christians in Boko Haram captivity.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity GARBA SHEHU, warned against politicisation of the nation’s security challenges.
In a statement Tuesday in Abuja, SHEHU said some political and religious leaders were out to score cheap political points from the nation’s religious differences.
While calling on Nigerians to remain united in the face of the terrorists’ message of division, the presidential aide said: “Unfortunately, some leaders and politicians seek to make political capital from our religious differences.
“As we fight Boko Haram on the ground, so too must we tackle their beliefs: stability and unity in face of their hatred is itself a rejection of their worldview.
“This government shall never tolerate religious intolerance. We clearly and unambiguously restate our support for the freedom to practise whichever belief you wish. The politicisation of religion, as forbidden by the constitution, has no place in Nigeria.”
He said security forces were working continuously to return those taken hostage by Boko Haram to their families, friends and communities.
The presidential spokesman further said: “In doing this, government has full confidence in their ability to accomplish the task. On its own part, government has condemned some of the appalling acts of terror, especially following the festive period.
“Yet, to continue to see these happenings solely in religious terms – removed from social, economic and environmental factors – simplifies complexities that must be heeded.
“Not seeing them as they should be is exactly what the terrorists and groups wish: they want Nigerians to see their beliefs as reason(s) to turn against one another.
“On the contrary, Christians and Muslims alike are united in their opposition to Boko Haram and the hatred for decency that the infamous group stands for.”
Recall that CAN through its President, REV. SAMSON OLASUPO AYOKUNLE, said the abduction of Christians by the insurgents amounted to persecution of adherents of the faith.
