Cleric Urges Dialogue, Not Division, to End Insecurity

A prominent cleric has called for national unity and constructive dialogue to resolve Nigeria’s security challenges, cautioning against framing the crisis along religious lines.

Speaking during a recent forum, he noted that many of those involved in violent attacks in parts of the country share the same faith as their victims, stressing that the issue extends beyond a Christian–Muslim divide.

“In this part of the country, we are predominantly Christian, yet those perpetrating killings also bear Christian names,” he said. “This crisis goes far deeper than religion. Nigeria will overcome these trials, but the path forward lies in dialogue and understanding.”

He urged community and faith leaders to promote peace and work collectively to address the underlying causes of violence, including poverty, injustice, and political manipulation.