Appolonia Emeanua
22 February 2002
Lagos Catholic Archbishop, Dr. Olubunmi Okogie, has cautioned Nigerians to avoid using religion as a smoke-screen for fomenting internal rowdiness and confusion.
In a goodwill message to Muslims on the occasion of the celebration of Id El Kabir, that is being celebrated today and tomorrow, Okogie
"Cautioned Nigerians to separate their Religion from Politics and violence."
According to the message signed by the Director, social Communications, Lagos Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Osu, Okogie observed that "the tenets of all relevant religions revolve on universal love and salvation."
He stated that "it was astonishing that Nigerians who visit various
Holy sites in fulfillment of their religious obligation come back to the country to un-leash terror on their neighbors."
While imploring Nigerians to make Nigeria safe for the next generation, Bishop Okogie said "No one should plunge this country into the Israeli - Palestinian situation because there can be no progress where there is no peace".
He wished Nigerians a happy celebration and reminded everyone to do everything in moderation.
Today, and tomorrow have been declared as public holidays throughout Nigeria to enable Muslim faithfuls celebrate Id El Kabir.
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