Tinubu Urges Religious Leaders to Speak Against Terrorism, Kidnapping

President Bola Tinubu has called on religious and spiritual leaders to speak out against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the misuse of religion to justify violence.

Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, made the call on Sunday in Kano during the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani.

The President said religious leaders had a critical role to play in confronting violence, extremism and the manipulation of faith for destructive purposes.

He urged religious institutions and networks to strengthen advocacy for peace education, religious literacy, scholarship and the moral development of young people.

Tinubu also called on religious leaders to use their influence to promote justice, responsibility, compassion and peaceful resolution of grievances.

“Your voices must be raised consistently against the murder of innocent people, against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the misuse of religion to justify cruelty,” the President said.

He urged religious leaders to remind political leaders of their responsibilities to uphold justice and compassion, while encouraging citizens to pursue legitimate grievances through lawful means.

Tinubu stressed that genuine religious devotion should never be used to justify violence against innocent people.

“Above all, our spiritual fathers must continue to teach that no genuine service to Allah is advanced by destroying the innocent human life that Allah has made sacred,” he said.

The President said stronger cooperation between religious institutions, government and communities would help promote peace and counter extremist narratives capable of influencing young people.