Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, has urged Muslims to actively promote the true values of Islam by prioritising peace, justice, equity, and human rights in society.

He made the call on Saturday during the merit awards ceremony at the 11th Triennial National Conference and 101st anniversary in Abeokuta.

Mr Amosun highlighted that this year’s conference theme, ‘Islam and Muslims: Roles and Relevance in a Pluralistic World,’ was highly relevant.

He emphasised the importance of Muslims leading efforts for interfaith harmony, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.

He reminded attendees that the core pillars of Islam — faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage — stress mutual understanding, tolerance, and compassion.

He also lamented that hatred, and division had overtaken religion’s unifying purpose.

Mr Amosun said, “In a pluralistic world, marked by diverse thoughts, cultures, and beliefs, Islam and Muslims must significantly contribute to global societal growth.’’

Mr Amosun noted that pluralism should be viewed as a benefit to humanity, promoting unity rather than division. He stated that pluralism in religion is not for one faith to dominate others.

He urged Muslims to constructively engage with the values of Islam and demonstrate their relevance in a pluralistic world.

Mr Amosun also condemned the harmful impact of extremist groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Boko Haram, and Lakurawa in Nigeria, stressing that their actions had distorted the public perception of Islam.

He denounced recent violence in Plateau State and other regions due to land disputes and ethnic tensions, calling such actions needless and preventable with respect for human dignity and equality.

He stated, “Their nefarious actions have tarnished the essential roles of Islam and Muslims globally.’’

Mr Amosun emphasised that no tribe should be superior to another, and no ethnic group should be regarded as inferior.

He urged respect for human dignity and a collective effort to combat negative stereotypes created by extremists.

He said, “Islam is a religion based on peace, harmony, and equity. We must project these values through our actions and deeds to maintain respect and relevance.’’

Mr Amosun congratulated those who received the society’s meritorious awards and urged them to continue promoting mutual understanding and unity for the nation’s progress.

In his address, the National Missioner and Chief Imam of Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Abdul-Rahman Ahmad, urged Muslims worldwide to work toward building a just society, aware that they would be accountable for their actions in the hereafter.

He also called on Nigerian public officials to be transparent and accountable, reminding everyone that they would answer for how they used their lives.

‘Baba Adinni’ of the Owu community, Dr Ismail Akindele, emphasised that no one, regardless of their faith, should harm another. He urged Muslims to uphold the principles of good Islamic practice.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals, recognising their contributions to the progress of Nigeria.

(NAN)