ABUJA, NIGERIA — A leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Abdulazeez, has stated that terrorism has no connection with Islam, urging Nigerians to reject narratives that associate the religion with violent extremism.
The statement was made on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at approximately 10:30 a.m., during a public engagement and religious dialogue held at an Islamic centre in Abuja, where faith leaders gathered to promote peace and national unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
Abdulazeez emphasized that Islam, as a religion, promotes peace, tolerance, and coexistence, and should not be misrepresented by the actions of individuals or groups engaging in violence. He noted that extremist acts are often driven by political, social, or economic factors rather than genuine religious teachings.
He warned that linking terrorism to Islam fuels division and misunderstanding within society, adding that such narratives can deepen religious tensions and undermine efforts toward national cohesion. He called on Nigerians to focus on shared values and work collectively to build a peaceful society.
The Ahmadiyya leader also highlighted the role of religious institutions in countering extremism by promoting education, dialogue, and accurate understanding of faith. He stressed that clerics must continue to guide followers toward peaceful conduct and discourage radical interpretations.
His remarks come at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges in various regions, including insurgency and banditry, which have affected communities and strained national stability.
Participants at the event echoed the need for collaboration between religious leaders, government agencies, and civil society to address the root causes of violence, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.
Observers say statements like Abdulazeez’s are significant in shaping public discourse, particularly as the country moves toward another election cycle where issues of security and national unity are expected to dominate political conversations.
The engagement concluded with calls for sustained interfaith dialogue and stronger community-level initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies.
As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, stakeholders are expected to prioritise messages that promote peace, tolerance, and collective responsibility in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
