The Muslim Community of Lagos State has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to promote unity, peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance.
In a statement signed by its President, Hon. Muhammad Bello Oyinlomo Danmole, and Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Jubril Folami, the community said Nigeria’s diversity in ethnicity, culture, language and religion should be seen as a strength rather than a source of division.
The group particularly cautioned against religious intolerance, tribalism, ethnic discrimination, hate speech and other tendencies capable of threatening peace and stability in Lagos State and the country.
It urged citizens to refrain from inflammatory statements and provocative conduct, stressing the need to preserve the harmonious relationships that have existed among Lagos’ various religious and ethnic communities.
The community said Islamic teachings strongly promote justice, compassion, peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity.
Quoting the Qur’an, Surah Al-Hujurat 49:13, it said: “O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may know one another.”
It also cited Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:8, which admonishes believers not to allow hatred to lead to injustice, describing justice as being closer to righteousness.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State further referenced the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), including the hadith that a Muslim is one from whose tongue and hand others are safe.
According to the community, these teachings provide practical principles for building a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society.
It called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, political office holders, community associations, youth organisations and the media to promote responsible communication, interfaith understanding and constructive engagement.
The group also urged Lagos residents to strengthen bonds of friendship and neighbourliness, respect one another’s religious practices, protect the rights and dignity of all residents, and resolve disagreements through dialogue and lawful means.
On national development, the community called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to nation-building, integrity, patriotism, justice and service to humanity.
It also urged leaders at all levels to promote fairness, good governance and accountability, as well as policies capable of advancing peace, social welfare and equal opportunities.
The community said it remained committed to working with government, religious institutions, traditional authorities and other stakeholders to sustain peaceful coexistence and promote the wellbeing of Lagos State and Nigeria.
“As we celebrate Nigeria at 66, let us remember that our diversity is our strength, our unity is our responsibility, and our peace is a shared treasure that must be protected by all,” the statement said.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State prayed for continued peace, stability and prosperity in Nigeria and called on citizens to celebrate the Independence Anniversary in a spirit of unity and patriotism.