AWKA — Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, has called on religious bodies across the country to promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen interreligious relations despite their differences.
Udeze made the call in a message to mark this year’s Eid-el-Maulud celebration, urging Nigerians to see religion as a force for unity rather than division
The Speaker said religious differences should not become a source of conflict, noting that the various faiths recognise God as the creator of the universe
He urged Muslims celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad to focus on peace, unity and the development of the country, which he said should take precedence over religious affiliations and interests
According to him, a conducive socio-political and economic environment was essential for all religious groups to thrive
Udeze urged Muslims to use the occasion to renew their commitment to love, charity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence
He also called on religious leaders to promote messages that would strengthen interfaith understanding and national unity
The Speaker commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for what he described as his efforts to accommodate the Muslim community in Anambra State, particularly by creating an enabling environment for its members to practise their faith and pursue their livelihoods
He urged members of the Muslim community to reciprocate the gesture by remaining peaceful and supporting government efforts to develop the state
Udeze also appealed to Muslim leaders to continue preaching unity, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence among their followers for the peace and progress of the country