‘Christian, Moslem leaders cause of conflicts in Nigeria’

By Nnamdi Ojiego

As the National Summit on Security Challenges jointly organised by Vanguard Media and the Nigeria Police entered the second day, some participants at the summit have blamed the incessant violent crises in Nigeria on the leaders of the two major religions in the country.

Representative of the President, Navy Capt. Caleb Olubolade (rtd) flanked by the Chairman of the Eevent, Alhaji Gambo Jimeta (3rd left) and the Inspector Genral of Police, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar while the Interior Minister, Comrade Abba Moro (2nd right); Publisher Vanguard, Mr. Sam Amuka (2nd left) and other dignitaries at the opening of the National Summit on Security Challenges in Nigeria held at the African Hall, International Conference Centre, Abuja, Tuesday. Photo:Abayomi Adeshida.

This assertion was made by Rev Joseph Hayab and Mallam Sani Shehu both from Kaduna State while discussing the first paper of the day titled “Religious and Ethnic Discord as a Threat to National Security,” delivered by Prof. Sam Egwu.

Hayab and Shehu spoke separately of how leaders of the two major faiths of Christianity and Islam had blindly led their followers to conflicts.

The paper brought to light how trouble makers have successfully manipulated religious and ethnic divisions in the country to achieve their violent ambitions.

Discussion on the paper was largely focussed on breaking down ethnic brands and the promotion of national ideas.