Religion must unite, not divide Nigerians — Fashola

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Former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has called for greater religious tolerance in Nigeria, stressing that religion should unite people rather than create division.

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According to a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Monday, Fashola spoke on Sunday at the annual “God in My Life” lecture organised by the Torchbearer Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral (AVMCC), Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

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The former governor, who is a Muslim, said faith should remain a personal conviction and should never be imposed on others.

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He urged Nigerians of different religious backgrounds to respect one another, noting that peaceful coexistence was essential for national cohesion.

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“Religion should unite rather than divide people,” Fashola said, while advocating mutual respect among adherents of different faiths.

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Speaking on the role of God in human existence, Fashola described God as the ultimate architect of the universe, saying His presence could be seen in different aspects of human life.

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He noted that family members, friends, associates, schools and workplaces could all serve as instruments through which people received guidance and direction.

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Fashola also reflected on his personal journey, recalling his early roots in the Anglican Church and how his experiences there contributed to his upbringing and personal development.

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He recounted several near-death experiences and moments of danger during his younger years, which he attributed to youthful recklessness, saying his survival was a testimony to divine providence.

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The former governor challenged the audience to reflect on the extent of human control over the course of life.

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“If God gave us the opportunity to arrange our life’s journey by ourselves, can any one of us decide which phase of our life should come first?” he asked.

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Fashola said the uncertainties and experiences that accompany human existence should remind people of God’s continuing influence in their lives.

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In his keynote address, the Chief Host and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revd. Olusola Odedeji, described the “God in My Life” programme as an opportunity for reflection, testimony and gratitude.

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“God in my life is a call to reflection, testimonies and appreciation,” Odedeji said.

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He added, “We can be lonely but not alone.”

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The bishop also commended Fashola for serving as a role model to young people, noting that youths from across the diocese attended the programme in large numbers to listen to his experiences and draw inspiration from his life.

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Earlier, a member of the Torchbearer Society and former Chairman of Nestle Plc, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, praised Fashola for his achievements in public service and his contributions to the church and Lagos State during his tenure as governor.

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The annual lecture series brings together distinguished Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to share personal experiences about faith, leadership, public service, business and other aspects of life.

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The event attracted clergy, professionals, community leaders and young people, with speakers emphasising the importance of faith, tolerance and national unity.

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