The Emir of Lafia and the Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, His Majesty Muhammed on Wednesday stated that peace was critical to the development of the nation.
Speaking in Abuja at the launch of a book titled ‘Philosophy of War and Peace under Islamic Law’ the Emir asked Nigerians to support the government in achieving peace.
He said for the country to grow in development as it is expected, every citizen will have to embrace peace regardless of religious standing.
“Everyone must make it their business to support the government and make whatever contribution, no matter how small, to ensure that we maintain peace in this country.
“It is achievable. It is not a mirage. Other countries that have achieved peace have done so not because they are better than us in any respect, but because of their commitment and love for their country.
“I think essentially, that is what we must try to cultivate is love for our country. We have to accept that no one will come to defend our country for us. We have to do it ourselves” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Author of the book, Dr Nurean Dindi, Head of the Public and International Law Department in the Faculty of Law at Baze University in Abuja said the general impression and misconception worldwide are that Islam is the religion of war.
“Everything attributed to Islam is viewed as hostile. Therefore, there is a need to let the world know the true concept of armed conflicts in Islam.
“Must there be war? Why should there be war? The singular purpose of war under Islamic law is to protect individuals, save lives, souls, and protect the religion itself.
“If nobody is aggressive against the Muslim world, there will be no war. There will be peace all around. If the jurisprudence of Islam in relation to war and peace is rightly observed, we will have less hostility and more peace in the world. This is the basic motive of writing the book,” the Author stated.
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