Onaiyekan: Shouting God’s name but killing your neighbour is not religion

John Onaiyekan, a cardinal and former Catholic archbishop of Abuja, says religion should be presented in a way that promotes peace among citizens.

Onaiyekan spoke in Abuja on Thursday during the celebration of his 80th birthday and book presentation.

The cardinal said he is very happy that people keep talking about the need for peace in Nigeria, noting that the country cannot make progress without peace in place.

He said religion has a major role 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,” he said.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

Also speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, said Onaiyekan’s unwavering commitment to justice, compassion, and unity has touched countless lives and inspired generations.

He said through the former archbishop’s unfaltering faith and dedication, he became a “beacon of hope, guiding his flock with love, compassion and unwavering integrity”.

“Cardinal Onaiyekan’s leadership and ministry have been marked by a resolute pursuit of justice and equality. In the face of injustice he has been a tireless advocate for the marginalised and the voiceless,” Akpabio said.

“It is not just his actions that inspire us; it is his words that resonate in our hearts. His Eminence possesses a rare gift of eloquence and a profound ability to unite people from all walks of life.

“His words have the power to heal; to bridge divides, and to ignite the flames of hope in even the darkest of times.

“His sermons have touched the hearts of millions, reminding us of our shared humanity and the inherent dignity that resides within each and every one of us.”

Born in Kabba, Kogi on January 29, 1944, Onaiyekan was the archbishop of Abuja from 1994 to 2019 and was ordained a cardinal on November 24, 2012, by Pope Benedict XVI.