…as Akpabio, Gowon, Lulu-Briggs, others laud him
By Samson Adeyanju
Emeritus Archbishop of Abuja, His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan has maintained that what ever anyone does to hurt his or her neighbour is not religion, even as he explained that true religion must reflect peace.
Cardinal Onaiyekan, who made his position known on the sidelines during the celebration of his 80th birthday and book presentation recently in Abuja, said he is very happy that Nigerians are talking about the need for peace in the country.
Onaiyekan noted that the country cannot make progress without peace in place, acknowledging that religion has a major role to play in promoting peace contrary to people’s opinion that it is one of the causes of conflict in the country.
“They even blame religion for our situation. But my position is that true religion must be about peace.
“Whatever you do, even if you shout the name of God a thousand times, and you are hurting your neighbour and killing the innocent, that is not religion.
“If religion is presented in a way that is not peaceful, then it cannot succeed in bringing the peace we expect. Many talk religion but are talking war and conflict.”
Onaiyekan is the Emeritus Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese 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.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, the Former Military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, Lulu-Briggs and other dignitaries who honoured the event praised Cardinal Onaiyekan’s inter-religious tolerance and promotion of religious peace in the country.
These personalities urged Nigerians to emulate the man of God, admonishing them to continue to ensure religious tolerance and harmony, especially among religious leaders and followers.
Describing Onaiyekan as a relentless advocate of justice and a rare creation, whose unwavering commitment to justice has touched the lives of many and brought peace to the country, Akpabio, who is the Chief Presenter of the book explained that true leadership is not in the pursuit of power, but service to the people and in the promotion of peace.
“As we reflect upon the extraordinary journey of His Eminence, we are reminded of the power of resilience and determination.
“Born into humble beginnings, he rose above adversity and embraced the call to serve a higher purpose.
“In the face of injustice, he has been a tireless advocate for the marginalized and the voiceless. His Eminence, has taught us that true leadership lies not in the pursuit of power, but in the relentless pursuit of justice and the untiring commitment to uplifting the most vulnerable among us.
“Beyond his religious leadership, Cardinal Onaiyekan has also been a champion for interfaith dialogue and understanding. In a world often divided by religious differences, he has tirelessly worked to build bridges of understanding and foster a spirit of unity among all faiths.
“His Eminence’s life is a proof that true faith is not a source of division, but a powerful force that can bring togetherness in our shared pursuit of a better world,” Senate President said.
On his part, the Former Military Head of State reminded Nigerians to reflect on the work of a great person such as Onaiyekan, describing him as an exceptional religious leader and a man of faith who has worked tirelessly for inter faith unity of the country.
He again urged Nigerians to emulate Onaiyekan’s exemplary work and sacrifice toward building a greater nation.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Dumo Lulu Briggs in his welcome address, described Onaiyekan as a true icon worthy to be celebrated.
The Nigerian politician, lawyer, businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Lulu-Briggs charged all Nigerians especially the younger generation to emulate this Prince of the Church, who has always championed religious tolerance and peace.
Emulate his teachings and values for greater unity and peace among religions, Lulu-Briggs admonished.
The book titled, ‘Religion and Peace Post-Retirement Reflection of John Cardinal Onaiyekan on Interfaith Dialogue’, was edited by Rev. Fr George Ehusani, and reviewed by Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim.
The book was unveiled by the Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, who said it is full of satire and would make a good reading.
For Prof Ibrahim, the book is a true reflection of Onaiyekan’s standing on religious issues to date, noting that the Cardinal’s position that the core value of religion is peace, and whoever breaches that flaws the essence of religion.
The birthday celebration attracted religious leaders, past and serving politicians, traditional rulers and business moguls.
