Radio Nigeria Ibadan Zonal Station

Tag: Peace

  • Religious Tolerance, Promoting Relative Peace in Southwest

    By Adenitan Akinola

    Religious tolerance has been largely responsible for the relative peace being enjoyed in the Southwest part of Nigeria.

    This is not without occasional disruption by disagreements among adherents of different faith.

    On 30th of March this year members of the Muslim sect and Traditional worshipers of Obatala extraction clashed in Ile-Ife leading to the destruction of property, while six persons allegedly sustained injury.

    It took the maturity of the leaders of the various religions to prevent the faceoff from being escalated to a more sinister crisis.

    Before the Ile-Ife incident, the peace of Osogbo was disrupted on the 27th of June 2021 when a Moslem group and Traditional worshipers clashed during an attack on a mosque leading to the death of a person and varying degrees of injury on 12 others.

    In towns like Osogbo the state capital and ile-Ife among many other towns, churches, mosques and shrines exist together, while worshipers attend to their faith without rancour.

    This further attest to a research findings led by Professor Adekoya Ogen, sponsored by University of Birmingham which suggested that the Southwest Nigeria is where various religions coexist in the world without acrimony.

    What could now be responsible for the occasional faceoff among worshipers of these religions?

    Speaking on the matter, President of the Traditional worshipers, Osun State Chapter Dr Oluseyi Atanda blamed the new ugly trend of religious intolerance on loss of love and moral values in the society which he argued was manifesting in different forms of vices ranging from ritual killings to internet fraud and endemic corruption.

    Dr Atanda also submitted that the manner adherents of the two foreign religions talked down on traditional religion and make it a centre of their sermons was capable of promoting discord.

    “Government should as soon as possible save enact a law to regulate religion activities in Nigeria, with a view to ensuring that adherents respect the rights of others to their doctrines as long as it does not affect theirs, so that talking down and castigating ‘Orisa’ and it’s worshipers all the times the two imported religions can be abolished”. Doctor Atanda said.

    On his part, the Bishop of Methodist Church, Osogbo Diocese, The Rt Reverend Amos Ogunrinde contended that what happened occasionally was not religious per se, but crisis fueled by poor governance and injustice.

    Bishop Ogunrinde believed that all religions preached peace. “I am aware that Christianity, Islam and evening the traditional religion emphasis peace with neighbours in their teachings. Most times, people only use faith to actualize personal agenda since they know it’s the only mechanism that can easily sway the ordinary man on the street “.

    In his own submission, the Chairman of Osun Muslim community, Alhaji Mustapha Olawuyi pointed out that ignorance of the tenets of the religions would make an adherents resulted to conflict with people of other faith.

    Alhaji Olawuyi also suggested that poor economic indices played a significant role in the aggressive reactions of people which is hidden under the guise of religion.

    The leaders of the various faith maintained that government had a key role to play in enhancing economic performance and quality life of the citizens as well as regulating the conducts of each religion within the ambit of the Law.

    It must be emphasized that Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution mandates that Nigeria shall not adopt any state religion, while Section 38 of the Constitution guarantees the freedom of individual citizens to practice religion of his or her choices without interference.

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  • Nigerian Army Pledges to Sustain Peace

    The new General Officer Commanding, GOC, 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Ajunwa has promised that men and officers of the Nigerian Army will continue to play their parts in maintaining peace across the country.

    Major General Ajunwa made the promise at Oke Mosan Abeokuta when he paid a courtesy visit to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

    Major General Ajunwa gave the assurance that the Nigerian Army would continue to collaborate with other security agencies towards strengthening security architecture in Ogun State and ensuring that the state remained the choice destination for investors.

    Responding, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said his administration would continue to take actions that would guarantee the security of lives and property in the state, adding that any attempt to cause chaos would be viewed as an act of sabotage.

    While describing General Ajunwa as an officer with vast experience both in military and administration, Governor Abiodun said his wealth of experience both locally and internationally had prepared him to lead officers and men in the Division.

    Bolanle Adesida

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  • A Birth that Redefines the Destiny of Mankind

    By Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

    At this season in Bethlehem, a little town of no consequence, something phenomenal took place on a dark, starry and wintry night.

    It was a holy night when floods of light swarmed around some shepherds abiding by their sheep by night.

    Then came the sonorous voices of the angelic host, heralding the birth of a unique child born of a virgin woman by the name of Mary, and espoused to Joseph from the lineage of David.

    The message from the angels was succinct a saviour christened Jesus Christ has been born.

    This is the genesis of Christmas.

    Nativity Scene

    Jesus’ birth, a special gift to men by God, was one that offered hope to humanity hitherto condemned to eternal loss by the grievous fall in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God.

    The mood of the heralding angel captured the immeasurable mercy of God offered unto men, even in their sinful state as the angels chorused, glory be to God in the highest and on earth, peace and goodwill to all men.

    Undoubtedly, humanity today is in dire need of peace as the world grapples with one turmoil or the other.

    In Nigeria for example, citizens currently swim against the tide of insecurity, kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, ritual killings and terrorism with people living in apprehension day and night and uncertain of tomorrow.

    God foreseeing the state of things sent Jesus Christ, known as the Prince of Peace, Emmanuel, Counselor, Wonderful and Everlasting father to offer a way out of the turbulence.

    The route to this lies in his lifestyle which is an incomparable model for man to follow.

    As a shepherd, his leadership example is a beacon to all those in positions of authority today on how to manage and ensure the welfare of people.

    Typically, peace is the rallying point of this season and goodwill; hence, Nigerians should do all within their power to promote harmony across religious, political and ethnic divides.

    Like Jesus Christ, political leaders should demonstrate goodwill towards the populace by formulating policies that will promote their well-being.

    Leaders need to relate with their followers with every sense of humility giving room to criticisms despite their positions, for the birth of Jesus Christ exemplified humility, as he was born in a manger, though King of kings and Lord of lords.

    Citizens, on their part, should also complement the efforts of leaders by shunning activities that endanger peace including provocative utterances, the spreading of fake news and all forms of violence.

    Religious leaders equally also have a role to play in enthroning peace in society.

    There is no denying the fact that they are a leading voice in moulding the opinions and attitudes of their adherents.

    As the world celebrates Christmas, it behoves on all and sundry to work together and change the current narrative in the country for the better just as Mahatma Gandhi, a former Prime Minister of India, says, “be the change that you wish to see in the world”.

    Merry Christmas!

    Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

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  • Oyetola Wants Peace Amongst Contestants Ahead Of Election

    Osun state governor and APC candidate in the July 16 Governorship election Mr Adegboyega Oyetola wants contestants across party lines to be peaceful ahead and during the election.

    Governor Oyetola stated this in his acceptance speech after he was declared winner of yesterday APC Governorship Primary election in the state.

    He urged all contestants in Osun Governorship hip election to pursue their ambitions with utmost decency and not jeopardize the peace and tranquillity the State is noted for.

    The governor who described his victory in the primary election as victory for party members who trooped out during his strategic tour across the state said his emergence connotes joint resolution to continue to redefine governance and ref entrench sustainable democracy.

    “To all our citizens, we thank you for standing by us in the journey of these three years plus. I promise not to let you down in the years ahead.

    As we commence the electioneering campaigns, I urge all contestants across party lines to perform this exercise with utmost decency and not jeopardize the peace and tranquillity our State is noted for. “This is the least our people deserve and the beauty democracy requires.”

    It would be recalled that Governor Oyetola polled 222,169 to emerge as APC Governorship candidate on Saturday .

    His closest rival, former Secretary to the state government Alhaji Moshood Adeoti scored 12,921 while a former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr Lasun Yusuf polled 460 votes.

    Adeoye Abiodun

  • Agidigbo FM Chairman Charges MMPN To React More On National Issues

    Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria , MMPN  has been charged to be more alive to its responsibilities through regular reactions to  current issues to bring desired changes.

     The Chairman , Agidigbo FM,  Ibadan, Alhaji Oriyomi Hamsat made the call while playing host to executives and members of MMPN,  Oyo State Chapter that paid a courtesy visit to the station.

    He said the more the Association reacts to state and national issues,  the more it will be a force to reckon with stressing that  the present  situation in the country  calls for continuous reactions to ensure the authorities take proactive steps for the country to be at peace .

    The Agidigbo  FM Chairman harped on the need for MMPN  to intensify efforts on membership drive and also preach religious tolerance to aid peaceful co-existence in various communities .

    Alhaji Oriyomi while appreciating members of the  organisation for the visit assured them of active collaboration .  ” It  is a thing of joy to receive Muslim Media Practitioners today,  in which I belong .

    Let me say that we have not been doing much when it comes to responding to vital issues in the country”” As Muslim Media Practitioners , you have to contribute actively to the development of the country, speak out on vital  issues ,   particularly , when there is no election , so that during electioneering  , people won’t see you as agents of political gladiators “” I am very much with you and appreciate the organization for being there during the trying period .

    Let me say categorical that Agidigbo FM will have a branch and we are ready to  be part of activities of MMPN at the state level” He added.

    Earlier, Chairman,  MMPN Oyo State Chapter,  Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi lauded the station for its creativity and people centred programmes which has made it to be having more listeners every day.

    “We have been following Agidigbo FM  since it was an online radio, even during a test transmission as it metamorphosed to terrestrial broadcasting station and now that the full operation has commenced and truly, it’s people’s voice in line with the slogan of the station.

    No doubt,  Agidigbo FM is a radio of the people , by the people and for the people. You are parading the best hands in the profession and the creativity behind your programmes is awesome. It’s hope that the trend will continue and our prayer is that the station will continue to wax stronger”.

     Alhaji Fasasi enjoined the station to place more emphasis on professionalism and should not allow commercialization to dictate its tune.”Agidigbo FM should be a model of private station that will not sacrifice public service in the altar of commercialization.

    Let the station strike a balance between professionalism and commercialization.

    The two should be taken as important for survival of the station”. The MMPN  Chairman noted that MMPN was ready to collaborate with the station in different areas for the benefit of the people. 

    “As you are aware, we have competent and experienced hands in the areas of journalism, programming and other non- contents fields of the profession and we are ready to offer the services for the advancement of the station. 

    We will also appreciate adequate publicity for our activities. The door of MMPN is at the same  time open for any collaboration for the benefits of the two parties as well as humanity”. 

    Alhaji Fasasi urged the Chairman  of Agidigbo FM to participate actively in the programmes of MMPN and encourage the Muslim staff to be members.

    “Seeing someone like you regularly in our midst will inspire more members to be coming, as a result, your seat in MMPN, the Association which was co-established by your elder brother, Alhaji Kunle Hamsat of the blessed memory is still vacant”.

    “It will be a great joy too if you encourage Muslims among the staff here to be attending our programmes.  In fact,  it will be a pleasure if Agidigbo FM becomes the first private station in Oyo  State to be registered as a branch”. 

    Ridwan Fasasi

  • Governor Makinde Advocates Peace Amongst Nigerians

    Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has said that Nigerians must imbibe peaceful coexistence and religious harmony to enhance development in the country.
    The governor, who spoke at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, during a visit by the former Emir of Kano, Sheikh Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, who now leads the Tijaniyya Islamic Sect of Nigeria, said that without peace, justice and harmonious living, development may elude the country.
    A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the  governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, lauds the former Emir for being courageous to champion the course of peace, unity and harmonious existence at this critical time in the nation’s history.
    He urged the new leader of the Tijaniyya society to always preach religious harmony to all parts of Nigeria.
    The former Emir of Kano, Sheikh Sanusi, in his speech, told the governor that he was in the state to meet with members of the Tijaniyyah sect.
    He said that he has taken it as his duty to do everything within his powers to preach peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
    According to him, the Tijaniyyah sect, which he now leads, has a 70 million strong population, adding that the sect would continue to work for peace, unity and development in Nigeria.

    Iyabo Adebisi

  • Peace a necessity for development- Wale Kotilo

    Every Nigerian must work for peace and its sustenance.

    A human rights activist, Mr. Wale Kotilo who stated this in an
    interview with Radio Nigeria noted that development could take place
    only in a peaceful atmosphere.

    Mr. Kotilo said disagreement was bound to happen in a large entity with
    diverse tribes like Nigeria urging people to find means of resolving
    issues in a peaceful manner.

    He urged Nigerian leaders to be fair to all for equitable development
    and rancour free society.


    Funmi Adeoye

  • President Buhari Appeals for Peace, Brotherhood

    As the Judicial panel of inquiry set up by the Lagos State Government, one of the more dozen states todo so, starts sitting on Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his full support and optimism that it will assist the nation to give justice to peaceful protesters who lost their lives, security men who were murdered and property owners whose assets were vandalized and looted.
    The President, who said he had all along avoided going into a debate about the Lekki Toll Gate incidents until all the facts are established, appealed to the people all over the country to maintain peace and brotherhood as the machinery of the government and the wheel of justice turn against the perpetrators of murder, arson, stealing, rape, assault and malicious damage to public and private property.
    The President advises that peace, brotherhood, and inter communal harmony are central to our ethos and urges Nigerians “not to turn against one another in hate.”
    He said it is important that the police and other security agencies move everywhere to restore calm and normalcy as quickly as possible.
    President Buhari said while his administration is working hard through many pragmatic ways to reduce the hardship of the millions of our unemployed, poor citizens and those whose lives have been thrown into disarray by the harsh economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, he warned that resort to widespread attacks and the organized looting and plundering of public and private property in many states are inimical to public good and stand condemned.
    A government that has launched a massive crackdown on corruption, brought in strong laws for a decisive battle against corruption, pursues loot recovery at home and abroad, and taken strong decisions against those who thought they were above the law, will not fold its arms when an otherwise legitimate and peaceful protest is turning into free-for-all vandalism and looting.
    While the administration has, for its part, blocked so many means of looting public money in a war against corruption, it is the expectation that all civil authorities, community and religious leaders in the country must rise against the organized looting and plunder we are witnessing in parts of the country. Families must turn back children who bring home unaccounted goods, in the same way wives must ask their husbands to return looted items brought home.
    What is more, is that criminal actions as we have so far witnessed can weaken and erode the confidence of our people and that of foreign businesses in investing in the economy. Looting and vandalism will hurt trade and investment growth in our country, both large and small industries, as well as our hardworking people in the informal sectors of the economy.
    These incidents do not reflect well on any society. They are wrong and condemnable and should not be supported by reasonable members of the society.
    In line with this, President Buhari commends the decision of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to prosecute 229 suspects arrested by the police for allegedly using the #EndSARS protest to destroy and loot public and private property.
    As mentioned in two successive statements on the issues, the President and his administration have taken note of the grievances of the people. “We have heard you loud and clear,” he said, and has shown a clear determination to take all necessary measures to address the complaints. The violence must stop.
    President Buhari also condemned hate messages and eviction notices to ethnic and religious groups asking Nigerians to take pride in the fact that our diverse people have been living with one another in harmony for ages. The right of all citizens to live and work in any part of the country is a constitutional right and will be defended by the government.


    Garba Shehu
    Senior Special Assistant to the President
    (Media & Publicity)
    October 25, 2020

  • Cleric Advocates for Peace Among Nigerians

    The presiding Bishop, Victory International Church, Rehoboth Cathedral, Ibadan bishop Taiwo Adelakun has appealed to Nigerians to shun the acts of violence presently being experienced in some parts of the country to allow peace to reign.


    Bishop adelakun who made the appeal in an interview with Radio Nigeria said it was unfortunate that the peaceful protest which initially was to demand reformation in the police force and change for a new Nigeria turned violent.


    The cleric said for the country to surmount her challenges, it has become necessary for government to embark on sincere reformation in all sectors, be more accountable and reduce the cost of governance that will make politics less attractive.


    While advocating for state police for effective policing, Bishop Adelakun called for full investigation into the lekki toll plaza shootings and make culprits face the full wrath of law within short time.


    Bishop Adelakun urged journalists to be professional in their reportage to avoid inciting stories.


    He reminded people on the seat of power that power belongs to the people and everyone will give account of his stewardship on judgement day.


    Mosope Kehinde

  • Pray for divine intervention concerning Covid-19 – Governor Abiodun

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has urged Muslims Ummah in the state to uphold the lessons of love, loyalty and sacrifice as they join other faithful around the world to celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

    Governor Abiodun who stated this in his Sallah message, said the Eid-el-Kabir celebration offered opportunity for sober reflection and spiritual renewal which Allah demanded from the faithful.

    The governor called on Muslim faithful and adherents of other faiths in the country to make peaceful coexistence their watchword and work together for a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

    He also stressed the need for Muslims to pray fervently for divine intervention that would flatten the curve of COVID-19 for congregational worship to resume in the state.

    While commending Muslims in the State for rising above religious sentiments in showing him love and solidarity at all times, Governor Abiodun urged them to observe prayer at their various homes.

    Bolanle Adesida