An Islamic Society has called on all Islamic leaders to take an open step and forbid terrorism in all its forms.
The Nasrul-lahi-l Fatih Society called on all Islamic leaders to openly shun and criticise terrorism as their silence according to the group promotes the perpetrators of such evil unintentionally.
Citing the insurgency case of Boko Haram, the society maintained that the lack of open criticism to the killings of innocent people by the Islamist Jihadist sect has imprinted a negative impression on some people about the Islamic religion.
Speaking in Lagos at the world press conference in celebration of NASFAT’s 21st year anniversary, the Association’s President, Mr. Kamil Bolarinwa called for a massive campaign and stand against terrorism in all its forms.
“Religion does not promote terrorism, neither do race or ethnicity. It is people who perpetrate acts of terrorism. Our contemporary experience has shown that when it comes to sharing lucre, big men and women, Muslims and Christians, Imams and pastors alike, act as one to fleece society.
“But when it comes to terrorism, just because eyewitnesses hear the perpetrator say ‘ Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is great) before the trigger is pulled or before a suicide bomber blows himself up, that invariably is the conclusive evidence that the perpetrator is a Muslim. Allahu Akbar is sacred to Muslims, but it is simple and anybody can be taught to say it, Muslim or not.
“Unfortunately, many Muslim leaders have not risen as one to challenge this mindset and condemn terrorism perpetrated by groups.of psychopaths masquerading as Muslims. By their loud silence and indifference, they unwittingly create impression of support for these terrorists. And for us at NASFAT, our 21st anniversary provides a unique opportunity for new partnerships for public enlightenment and mass education of people on what Islam truly stands for.”
The NASFAT President, while pointing out in clear terms that the Association was a non-political one called on the masses to support the government in restoring the nation to its glory days.
“While we (NASFAT) remain nonpartisan and apolitical, it is our view that all well-meaning Nigerians should support the government efforts and programmes intended to restore dignity to our compatriots at home and abroad and improve the welfare of the people. The war on corruption is one of such programmes.”