Ahmadiyya urges global peace, warns against Third World war

Addresses Shari’ah concerns in Southwest Nigeria

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has urged nations to pursue peace and avoid actions that could lead to a devastating third world war.Speaking during a world press conference on global peace, the Managing Director of Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA) International, Sir Munir-ud-din Shams, who is on a visit to Nigeria, emphasised the importance of peace and justice globally, noting that the worldwide Head of Ahmadiyya, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, in his book “World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace” described the current state of the world as a turbulent time and peace as the solution to the challenges.

Shams urged Nigerians to maintain peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic and religious groups. He called on the Nigerian government to ensure transparent, just, and good governance, pursuing economic reforms that benefit all citizens. He stressed the importance of protecting fundamental human rights, including freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and the media.

Shams advocated for equal rights for all, regardless of background, as a foundation for harmony and peace. He criticized the division between powerful and weaker nations, citing the UN Security Council as an example of inequality brewing anxiety and frustration. He emphasised Islam’s teaching of absolute justice and equality.

Regarding global crises and pathways to peace, Shams stated that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community supports a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. He toured new facilities at the Ahmadiyya base in Ojokoro, Lagos, including healthcare facilities, a digitized MTA studio, and a new solar system.

While responding to the question on the issue of Shariah panel in Southwest Nigeria, the Amir, National Head, Ahmadiyya Nigeria, Alatoye Folohunsho Azeez said the outcry about the institutionalization of Sharia in Southwest Nigeria seems overstated. “Application of Shariah law has a long history in the region and applies exclusively to Muslims, primarily in matters of marriage and inheritance. As a secular state, Nigeria allows individuals and groups to resolve issues according to their faith. The current outcry regarding Shariah appears politically motivated. Fear surrounding it likely stems from its misapplication. It’s important to remember that murder is a criminal offence, and the Nigerian constitution does not condone it,” he said.