Religious leaders and some participants at the just concluded Inter-Religious World Conference in Abuja have called on all Nigerians to embrace the concept of brotherhood and promote love and unity even in the face of the current hardship being experienced in the country.
This was the main thrust of the conference organised by Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), Christ Universal General Fellowship on Wednesday in Abuja with the theme, “In Brotherhood We Stand”.
In his opening remarks, the Conference Chairman, His Excellency, Alhaji Abdulsalam Paxman Ekpuze, Director, Inter-Religious Affairs, United Nations – POLAC Nigeria, said that the concept of brotherhood transcends mere association in the fabric of human society.
Ekpuze said that it embodies solidarity, support, and unity among individuals bound by common purpose or values.
“This phrase encapsulates the essence of mutual trust and unwavering support that defines relationships within groups, whether familial, communal, or ideological.
“Brotherhood fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie, where individuals pledge allegiance to shared goals and principles.
“It signifies a commitment to stand together through adversity, recognizing that strength lies in unity,” he said.
He noted that in times of hardship, just like the one we are experiencing in the country at the moment, brotherhood offers solace and encouragement, reinforcing resilience and fortitude.
He stressed that at its core, brotherhood promotes empathy and understanding, encouraging members to uplift one another and celebrate each other’s successes.
In his keynote lecture, PCS Ogar Osim, the Managing Director, Starcross TV, said that brotherhood instills a sense of responsibility towards the collective welfare, fostering an environment where mutual respect and cooperation thrive.
He noted that historically, brotherhood had played a pivotal role in shaping societies and movements, from ancient warrior bonds to modern-day advocacy groups.
“It forms the backbone of organizations like fraternities, military units, and humanitarian associations, where shared experiences forge lifelong bonds.
“In Brotherhood We Stand” serves as a reminder of the strength derived from unity and the power of collective action.
“It underscores the importance of inclusivity and diversity within communities, transcending differences to achieve common objectives.
“In conclusion, the phrase “In Brotherhood We Stand” embodies a commitment to solidarity, mutual support, and shared values by all Nigerians.
“It signifies a pledge to stand shoulder to shoulder, united in purpose and steadfast in resilience; just as is encapsulated in our national anthem, thereby exemplifying the enduring power of human connection and cooperation,” he said.
Lawrence Eko Alobi , a retired Commissioner of Police and a lawyer said the theme of the conference was apt, adding that it was coming at a time when the nation is becoming more and more divided on religious and ethnic lines.
“Like one of the speaker said, Brotherhood is the universality of man and humanity. We are one mankind. This is the same concept taught in my religion, mankind is one, God is one.
“Religion is meant to unite the people and not to divide them and the theme at this Inter-Religious World Conference is vert apt.
“You can see in our country today, it is so fragmented on the basis of religion and ethnicity. So, the more we become united, the better for us.
“If every Nigerian, we not just by words but by deeds, show love, forgive and have compassion for one another, the country and indeed the world at large will become a better place.
“These are the attributes of our various religious beliefs and common in all religion. So, I call on all Nigerians to embrace the spirit of brotherhood and promote love and unity in the country,” he said.
Bro Utibe Akpan Willie, the BCS State Administrator for FCT stressed that it was only in unity and brotherhood that we would be able to succeed as a nation.
“Unity encompasses everything; love, oneness, togetherness and without brotherhood we will not succeed.
“So, while embracing the concept of brotherhood, you know that you need to take care of your brother and live in peace with your neighbours,” he said.
Willie noted that the objective of the conference is to unite all the faith, adding that everyone must realise that there is only one God and one leader.
Dr Murtala Mohammed of the University of Abuja said that the conference aims to bring back the lost glory of brotherhood in the country.
He recalled that in the 80s, there was nothing like religious or ethnic rancour which is being experienced in the country today, noting that both Christians and Muslims, Hsusas, Igbos and Yorubas as well as other ethnic groups saw themselves as one and lived together in peace and harmony.
He called on politicians to desist from using religion or ethnic sentiments as a tool to divide the country, adding that they must use their positions to unite and treat every citizen equally.
NAN also reports that other speakers at the conference were; Mr Simon Ingmala Anchu, the National Vice Chairman, Baha’ I Faith Nigeria; Dr George Ikpot, National Secretary, Universal Peace Federation, Nigeria and Mrs Rahmat Dadi Hogan, National Secretary, Baha’i Faith Nigeria.
Others include; Prof. Stella Osim, HOD Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Calabar, Cross River; Prof. Ahmed Bello Dogarawa, an international inter faith preacher/lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; and Dr. Aminu Mu’Allimu Kambari, Dept. of Islamic and Development Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
