President Bola Tinubu has declared that no religion in the world justifies violence, banditry, or the taking of human life, urging Nigerians to embrace peace, unity, and mutual respect across ethnic and religious lines.
He made the remarks on Wednesday after observing Eid-el-Kabir prayers at Dodan Barracks in Lagos, where he reflected on the significance of sacrifice, obedience, and compassion as taught in Islam.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the festival serves as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s example and the value placed on human life, emphasizing that true sacrifice is rooted in obedience to God and love for humanity.
“Nowhere in the holy teachings does it say you should engage in banditry or take a human life,” Tinubu said.
“The sacrifice we speak of… teaches us that a child was replaced with an animal. That is the value placed on human life.”
He urged Nigerians to reject ethnic hatred, discrimination, and violence, stressing that national diversity should be seen as a strength rather than a source of division. He also called for greater kindness and generosity during the festive period, noting that peace and development must remain national priorities above political or religious differences.
“No discrimination, no ethnicity, no hatred. We should share love and be generous to one another in a way that reflects the values of our country and humanity,” he added.
The President also encouraged citizens to obey the rule of law and remain tolerant of one another.
Joining him at the prayers were several top government officials and traditional rulers, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Governor Babatunde Fashola, the Oba of Lagos Rilwan Akiolu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, also delivered a sermon urging Muslims to uphold unity, fear Allah, and embody the values of sacrifice, generosity, and peaceful coexistence.
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