The Muslim Community of Lagos State heartily congratulates all Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary, marking another milestone in our collective journey towards peace, unity, progress and national development.
Gatekeepers News reports that as Nigeria celebrates this historic occasion, the Muslim Community of Lagos State calls on all residents, particularly Lagosians, to uphold the enduring values of unity, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and tolerance that are essential to the continued peace and prosperity of our dear state and country.
The Community notes that Nigeria’s strength lies in its rich diversity of ethnicities, cultures, languages and religious beliefs. This diversity should be regarded as a source of strength and shared national identity, rather than a basis for division, suspicion or hostility.
The Community therefore cautions against religious intolerance, tribal sentiments, ethnic discrimination, hate speech and other divisive tendencies capable of threatening the peace and stability of Lagos State and Nigeria at large. It urges citizens to refrain from inflammatory statements, provocative conduct and actions that may undermine the harmonious relationships that have existed among the different religious and ethnic communities in Lagos.
The statement jointly signed by the community President, Hon. Muhammad Oyinlomo Danmole and Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Jubril Folami, reads: “Islam strongly advocates justice, compassion, peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity. Allah says in the Glorious Qur’an, Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13:
“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. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you.”
This divine injunction underscores the importance of human equality, mutual understanding and respect, irrespective of ethnic or social background.
Similarly, Allah commands in Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:8:
“Do not let the hatred of a people lead you to injustice. Be just! That is closer to righteousness.”
The Community also draws attention to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), who declared in an authentic hadith:
“A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the Muslims are safe,” Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.
The Prophet’s teachings further condemn tribal arrogance and prejudice. In a well-known narration, he described the call to tribal partisanship as something to be abandoned, affirming that such divisive appeals are contrary to Islamic guidance.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State stresses that these teachings are not merely religious ideals but practical principles for building a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society. They call 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 Community further urges Lagosians to strengthen the bonds of friendship and neighbourliness, respect one another’s religious practices, protect the rights and dignity of all residents, and resolve disagreements through dialogue, patience and lawful means.
As Nigerians reflect on the country’s journey since independence, the Community calls on citizens to renew their commitment to nation-building, integrity, patriotism, justice and service to humanity. It also encourages leaders at all levels to promote fairness, good governance, accountability and policies that foster peace, social welfare and equal opportunities for all.
The Muslim Community of Lagos State remains committed to working with government, religious institutions, traditional authorities and other stakeholders to sustain peaceful coexistence and advance the collective 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 Community wishes all Nigerians a peaceful, joyful and memorable Independence Anniversary, praying that Almighty Allah continues to guide our leaders, protect our nation, strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among our people, and bless Nigeria with enduring peace, stability and prosperity.
“Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!”
