Al-Bayan Interfaith Centre condemns Pastor Garba over Prophet Muhammad remarks
Interfaith body warns inflammatory speech risks unrest, demands clarification and restraint as Nigeria’s fragile religious balance comes into focus
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Al-Bayan Interfaith Centre has issued a strongly worded condemnation of remarks attributed to Pastor Emmanuel Sunday Garba, warning that statements perceived as offensive to the Prophet Muhammad risk undermining religious harmony in Nigeria.
In a press release dated 15 April, the centre working in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), under a national dialogue initiative described the comments as “deeply regrettable” and inconsistent with the principles of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in a religiously diverse society.
The organisation said such expressions, whether intentional or not, carry significant social and ethical consequences, particularly in a country where religious sensitivities have historically contributed to unrest.
“Expressions that undermine the dignity of sacred religious figures risk destabilising peaceful coexistence and weakening mutual trust among religious communities,” the statement said.
The group framed the issue not only as a matter of public conduct but as a broader threat to national stability, warning that religious provocation can escalate tensions if left unaddressed.
It drew on Islamic teachings to reinforce its position, citing guidance from the Qur’an that discourages insulting the beliefs of others.
“And do not insult those they invoke besides Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge…” (Qur’an 6:108)
The statement also referenced another passage emphasising respectful engagement: “Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a manner that is best…” (Qur’an 16:125)
According to the centre, these principles establish a framework for responsible religious expression rooted in restraint, wisdom and mutual respect across faith boundaries.
The organisation called on Pastor Garba to provide immediate clarification regarding the statements attributed to him and to withdraw or correct any content that could reasonably be interpreted as inflammatory.
It also issued a broader warning to religious leaders, public commentators and citizens, urging them to avoid speech or actions capable of inciting hostility or deepening divisions.
At the same time, the group appealed to Muslim communities to respond with patience and within the bounds of the law, emphasising the importance of maintaining public order and cooperating with security agencies.
Nigeria has a history of religious tensions that have, at times, escalated into violence, often triggered by perceived insults to faith or identity. Against that backdrop, the statement positions responsible speech as a critical component of national cohesion.
The centre reaffirmed its commitment to interfaith dialogue and civic education, stating that sustainable peace depends on continuous engagement and accountability in public discourse.
The National Orientation Agency, which partnered in the initiative, has been involved in similar efforts aimed at promoting national unity and preventing conflict through awareness campaigns.
The statement concluded with a call for proactive engagement by authorities and peacebuilding institutions to ensure that public discourse remains within the bounds of legality, mutual respect and national security considerations.
SPONSORED
SPONSORED
