Islamic society, Nasrul-lahi-l Fatih says the inaction and silence of Islamic leaders on terrorism can be interpreted as supporting insurgents.
NASFAT also says the failure of Islamic leaders to openly condemn the activities of insurgent group, Boko Haram is responsible for the negative perception people have about Islam.
NASFAT President, Kamil Bolarinwa, while speaking in Lagos on Saturday during a world press conference to mark the 21-years anniversary of the association, lamented the fact that all terrorists were tagged Muslims.
“Religion does not promote terrorism, neither do race or ethnicity. It is people who perpetrate acts of terrorism. Our contemporary experience has shown that when it comes to sharing lucre, big men and women, Muslims and Christians, Imams and pastors alike, act as one to fleece society.”
“But when it comes to terrorism, just because eyewitnesses hear the perpetrator say ‘Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is great) before the trigger is pulled or before a suicide bomber blows himself up, that invariably is the conclusive evidence that the perpetrator is a Muslim. Allahu Akbar is sacred to Muslims, but it is simple and anybody can be taught to say it, Muslim or not.”
“Unfortunately, many Muslim leaders have not risen as one to challenge this mindset and condemn terrorism perpetrated by groups of psychopaths masquerading as Muslims. By their loud silence and indifference, they unwittingly create impression of support for these terrorists. And for us at NASFAT, our 21st anniversary provides a unique opportunity for new partnerships for public enlightenment and mass education of people on what Islam truly stands for.”
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