A Muslim cleric in Osun State, Yusuf Adepoju, has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of the state, to embrace peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance.
Adepoju, leader of the Academy of Islamic Propagation (ACADIP), made the call in an interview with journalists on Monday in Osogbo.
He said religious teachings should promote harmony, peace, discipline and moral uprightness among members of any community.
The cleric urged Muslims to use the Ramadan period for reflection on their relationship with God, noting that faith should guide believers toward spiritual fulfilment and responsible living in society.
“I want to encourage residents of Osun to live peacefully with one another irrespective of religious differences, because mutual respect and tolerance play essential roles in community development.
“Acts of kindness, charity and compassion should also be prioritised during Ramadan, as they help strengthen bonds among people,” he said.
Adepoju also recalled that 12 people embraced Islam during Sunday’s ACADIP Ramadan lecture titled “Establishing the Climate of Truth and Enduring Conviction.”
He described the development as spiritually fulfilling and a new beginning for the converts.
According to him, the new adherents pledged to remain committed to the teachings of Islam and to live peacefully with members of other faiths in the community.