Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; former military head of state, Yakubu Gowon and other personalities have urged Nigerians to emulate His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, in inter-religious tolerance and promotion of religious peace.
At a book presentation to mark the Cardinal’s 80th birthday in Abuja, yesterday, they admonished Nigerians to continue to ensure religious tolerance and harmony, especially among religious leaders and followers.
Akpabio, who is the Chief Presenter, described Onaiyekan as an indefatigable advocate of justice and a rare creation, whose unwavering commitment to justice touched the lives of many and brought peace to the country.
According to the Senate president, true leadership is not in pursuit of power, but service to the people and promotion of peace.
Gowon, in his remarks, reminded Nigerians to reflect on the work of a great person as Onaiyekan and to emulate his exemplary work toward building a greater nation.
In a welcome address, the Chairman of the occasion, Dumo Lulu Briggs, described Onaiyekan as a true icon worthy of celebration.
Lulu-Briggs said such a man, who championed religious tolerance and peace, should be celebrated, and emulated by all, especially younger Nigerians.
He called on the citizens to emulate the teachings and values of Onaiyekan for greater unity and peace among religions.
The book, Religion and Peace Post-Retirement Reflection of John Cardinal Onaiyekan on Interfaith Dialogue, edited by Rev Fr. George Ehusani, was reviewed by Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim.
Ibrahim described the book as a true reflection of Onaiyekan’s standing on religious issues to date, noting the Cardinal’s preachment that “the core value of religion is peace, and whoever breaches that flaws the essence of religion.”
Onaiyekan is the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, the immediate past co-chair of the Africa Council of Religious Leaders, and the former Christian moderator of the World Council of Religion for Peace.
The book was unveiled by former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, who said it is full of satire and would make a good reading.
Speaking at the sideline of the event, the Cardinal told journalists that true religion must reflect peace, and that whatever one does to hurt their neighbour is not religion.
