The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has called on religious leaders in Nigeria to champion peace and reconciliation instead of fueling hatred and division, emphasizing that the country’s diversity should be celebrated as a strength. Speaking at an International Conference on National Security for Socio-economic Development in Abuja on Tuesday, Yilwatda urged faith-based leaders to use their influence to foster unity and national cohesion. The event was organized by Jama’atu Izalatil Bidiah wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) in collaboration with the Muslim World League of Saudi Arabia.
Yilwatda shared personal experiences to underscore his message, highlighting how he grew up in a community where interfaith harmony was not just possible but deeply practiced. His father, a pastor, maintained a close friendship with the local chief imam, and the two families regularly visited each other and participated in religious festivals together. He described this relationship as proof that religious differences do not have to create human distances or separation. “I’ve experienced the painful part of diversity, and I’ve experienced the beautiful part of the same diversity,” he said, reflecting on both the joys and hardships of living in a pluralistic society.
His family’s experience took a tragic turn in 1991 when his father was transferred to Bauchi, leading to violent clashes in their neighborhood. Their home and surrounding areas were burnt during the crisis, forcing both Christians and Muslims to seek refuge in military barracks. Yilwatda spent about three months in an internally displaced persons’ camp, where he witnessed firsthand how violence indiscriminately affected people regardless of religion. This trauma shaped his belief that religious and ethnic divisions are often exploited for political gain, causing lasting harm to society.
He criticized politicians who weaponize religion and ethnicity for temporary political advantage, warning that such actions leave permanent damage on communities and national unity. “We weaponise religion. We weaponise division for political advantage. Temporary advantage, but it leaves permanent damage in our lives,” he stated emphatically. Yilwatda urged Nigerians to ensure their religious beliefs promote respect for the dignity and freedom of others, regardless of faith or background.
He also called on religious leaders to transform mosques and churches into centers of peace, reconciliation, and responsible citizenship. “Let us preach truth without hatred, conviction without contempt, and truth without incitement. We can preach truth without inciting people. That is the hallmark of teaching as a religious leader,” he said. Yilwatda emphasized that Nigeria must strive for a society where Christians and Muslims protect one another and defend the dignity of every citizen, regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with threats like terrorism, banditry, communal violence, and hate speech, Yilwatda’s call for interfaith solidarity serves as a timely reminder that lasting peace begins with unity among its diverse population.
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