The Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu has expressed his concern over and condemnation of the recurring sectarian tension and violence in and around Jos in Nigeria which led to the loss of many lives and harmed the inter-communal harmony. In a press statement issued here, the OIC Secretary General stressed once more the need for religious leaders in Nigeria to take strong stance against extremists and those who exploit religions as covers for their criminal and mischievous acts and incitements, to teach to the adherents of their faith the sacred value of human life, to engage in a genuine dialogue in order to bridge any misunderstandings and misconceptions and to promote tolerance and harmony. He voiced his total rejection of violence in the name of any religion, including Islam, which preaches peaceful coexistence, compassion and tolerance. He called upon the traditional rulers and community leaders in the country to join hands to encourage dialogue, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and rule of law as means of resolving disputes.
