By Dada Ahmed.
In a multi-religious society like Nigeria, religion ideally serves as both a moral compass and a source of spiritual strength. Islam and Christianity, the country’s two predominant religions, promote peace, love, tolerance, and charity. Yet, over time, these noble values have been eroded by deepening divisions, often fueled by the misuse of religion for political or ethnic gains.
Kogi State, often described as a microcosm of Nigeria due to its rich ethnic and religious diversity, has largely remained peaceful largely because of religious harmony imbibed its inhabitants.
However,with the population spread across Kogi East, Kogi Central, and Kogi West, there has been some suggestions in some quarters that the state must adopt proactive measures to prevent division and enhance the enduring harmony.
The citizens must chip in by converting religious plurality into a dynamic force for peace and socio-economic progress of the state.Instead of seeing differences as threats, citizens must continue to recognize them as strengths that reflect a rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Both Islam and Christianity share foundational values,compassion, justice, honesty, and service to humanity. When these shared principles are emphasized in interfaith interactions and community engagements, the focus will shift from competition to collaboration, from division to unity.
Religious leaders, pastors,Imams and other clerics have a pivotal role to play in this transformation because their voices shape opinions and influence actions. By consistently preaching messages of love, tolerance, and unity, they can help dismantle prejudices and foster a spirit of coexistence. Initiatives such as interfaith seminars, and peace walks should be encouraged and institutionalized.
Education is another powerful tool for promoting inter-religious understanding. Schools and faith-based institutions must include teachings on tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and conflict resolution. Children raised in such environments grow into adults who see diversity not as a threat but as a beautiful aspect of humanity.
The administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has demonstrated commitment to equity by ensuring fair representation and resource allocation across religious lines. To sustain and strengthen this progress, the government must further institutionalize inclusive policies that assure every citizen that their identity is respected and protected.
Citizens also have a duty to reject divisive narratives. In many Kogi communities, Muslims and Christians coexist peacefully,sharing neighborhoods, markets, and even families. Interfaith marriages, though less common, and shared business ventures are living examples of cooperation. These positive stories should be amplified as models for the rest of the state.
The media must play a constructive role. Journalists, broadcasters, and online influencers should highlight stories that showcase unity and mutual respect rather than division and conflict. As agenda-setters, the media can significantly shape public perception and reinforce the values of peaceful coexistence.
Civil society organizations, especially youth and women groups, are also vital actors. Through interfaith forums, peacebuilding workshops, and cultural events, they can provide neutral spaces for people of diverse backgrounds to connect, share, and learn from one another.
Traditional rulers and community leaders, who are the custodians of cultural values in the society,must remain vocal advocates for religious harmony. Their positions of influence, particularly in rural areas, enable them to mediate in conflicts and encourage communal solidarity. Their endorsement of interfaith unity adds legitimacy and weight to peacebuilding efforts.
Economic collaboration is another pathway to harmony. When citizens work together in markets, on farms, or in cooperatives, religious identity often takes a back seat to share goals. By promoting inclusive associations and trade groups, communities can foster a sense of interdependence and collective success.
No meaningful development can occur without peace. The Ododo administration’s agenda on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security can only succeed in a climate free from religious strife. Unity among faith communities is not a luxury,it is a necessity for sustainable progress.
Religious holidays should be occasions for bridge-building. Instead of isolating communities, these periods should be used for continued foster goodwill through exchange of greetings, shared meals, and joint community service. Such gestures, though simple, go a long way in dissolving mistrust.
To institutionalize this harmony, the establishment of a permanent Inter-Religious Council in Kogi State is advisable. This council would serve as a platform for dialogue, conflict resolution, and advisory to the government. Regular meetings and public communiqués would help maintain a steady message of peace and inclusivity.
Ultimately, peace begins with the individual. If every citizen of Kogi commits,as it were with many citizens, to respecting others, listening before judging, and placing humanity above prejudice, the state can continue on the path of unity.
By this religion, then, becomes a bridge to collective growth,not a barrier.
By continued turning of their religious differences into shared strengths, the people of Kogi State can, indeed, write a new and enduring chapter,one defined by unity, peace, and progress, where every citizen, regardless of faith, contributes meaningfully to a thriving and inclusive society.
Ahmed publishes The Reporters
Email: ahmeddada008@gmail.com
