The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said religion without tolerance is inhumanity, adding that tolerance should be a hallmark of religious understanding.
He stated this while hosting the National Executive of Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) on a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Interior in Abuja.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo noted that religious leaders have a big role to play in fighting radical extremism and that the Ministry was ready to partner with NASFAT in the areas of advocacy, awareness and capacity building.
Noting that the fight against radical extremism can be fought both in kinetic and non-kinetic ways, the Minister said that the non-kinetic approach in particular can be deployed to counter extreme ideology with superior ideology. According to Dr. Tunji-Ojo, religious leaders have a key role to play in this vein.
Hence, the Hon Minister said, “religious leaders have a role in making sure we hand over banners to our children without a stain”.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained that for him, he is never attached to the office but always attached to responsibilities. According to him, it is the responsibilities that make the office worthwhile, and he acknowledged NASFAT’s profound impact on the lives of humanity, and that is why he could passionately identify with the Society.
The Secretary of NASFAT Board of Trustees, Oloye Remi Babalola, who led the delegation to the Ministry said they came to appreciate the Minister for his good work to Nigeria, and pray for him to succeed on the mission given to him by President Bola Tinubu.
He also sought for partnership between NASFAT and the Ministry, especially on capacity building, advocacy to Custodian centres and appreciated the Minister on the assistance he rendered to its branch in Ondo state. NASFAT, a Muslim prayer group, at the end of the visit offered prayers for the Minister and the nation at large.
Signed
Ozoya Imohimi
Director Press & Public Relations
