The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has challenged both Christian and Muslim clerics to live up to their callings by championing the cause of peace in the country.
Mr Mike Omeri, the Director General of NOA made the call in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by Mr Paul Odenyi, the Chief Press Secretary.
The NOA boss threw the challenge during an Interfaith Peace Advocacy meeting with clerics of both faiths in Jalingo, Taraba.
Omeri said that since all religions preach love, peace and good neighbourliness, it was incumbent on religious leaders to ensure adherence to the tenets through their preaching.
He urged them to show action that would regulate the conduct of their adherents in accordance with religious injunction.
“Since you have been elected to take us to Heaven, you must do everything within your power to make sure you do just that.
“If you lead us astray, remember that you will have to answer to God, so it becomes your responsibility to make sure that you emphasise peace, love, unity, dialogue and good neighbourliness,“ he said.
Rev. Innocent Solomon, the Vice Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State chapter, observed that leaders of both religions in the state had resolved to live in peace.
Hon. Ahmed Bose, Vice Chairman Taraba State Chapter, Muslim Council of Nigeria noted that in keeping with the teaching of Holy Quaran they had never failed to tell their followers that “whoever kills one person has killed the whole world“.
He added that Muslim clerics in the state had continued to influence their followers to live in peace with members of other faiths and to eschew all manners of violence.
Bose said that their relationship with Christians had remained cordial and there was mutual commitment to sustain peace. (NAN)