Religious leaders have been enjoined to lead by example in their teachings, preaching and conduct as true custodians of the conscience and morality of the society.
This was part of the recommendations of the just concluded fourth annual national unity conference organized by Community and Youth Development (CYD), in Abuja.
In a communiqué signed by its Chairman, Dr. Joseph Golwa, and Secretary, Dr. El-Harun Muhammad, the conference encourages religious bodies to stick to procedures and standard to ensure proper monitoring and control in preaching and public admonition.
The conference observed that insincere approach to religious teachings that results in wrong interpretations and application of religion in violent and conflict ridden manner.
It noted that youth restiveness and involvement in violence is as a result of growing unemployment and inadequate efforts at job creation and empowerment.
Also, parents are encouraged to continue and commit themselves more to character molding of wards and children teachers and religious leaders do.
It however commended the modest efforts of Government at funds disbursement to entrepreneurs and call for more coordinated initiatives at wide spread accessibility to finance at realistic charges to encourage self-reliance and more job creation.
It added that Government should expand the scope and resources in dialogue and peace building efforts and initiatives in view of the growing magnitude of misunderstanding and conflicts in the society.
“The conference appreciates the value of dialogue in nation building and advocates for more commitment on both the sides of government and the religious organisations to embrace the continued dialogue at all levels in building the culture of mutual trust, respect and understanding.
“We appeal to private organizations to contribute more meaningfully in creating awareness on peace building, reconciliation and reintegration to compliment government efforts at fighting the insurgency.
“The conference organizers specially thanked the President and the Vice president, the Sultan of Sokoto, CAN president, as well as all the spiritual and political leaders, including participants, who graced the occasion,”the communiqué stressed.
Peoples Daily recalls that the conference was jointly organized by CYD with youth for peace and Good leadership initiative, another Non-Governmental Organisation based in Abuja.
