Nigerian cardinal challenges Islamic leaders to condemn Boko Haram terrorism
October 02, 2013
Following new attacks on Christians by the Boko Haram terrorist group, in Nigeria, Cardinal John Onaiyeken of Abuja has called upon Islamic leaders to speak out against the violence.
“Those Muslims who agree with the Pope should not simply agree with the Pope for having said a nice thing,” the Nigerian prelate told Vatican Radio. “They should actually go out themselves and say it loud and clear to those whom they lead, because this is where we should be going.”
Cardinal Onaiyekan said that the history of relations between Christians and Muslims is marred by frequent conflict. The Christian world has moved to end the violence, he said, but Muslims now must do the same.
The cardinal also said that peacekeeping efforts by world leaders have generally lacked “a spiritual dimension.” He said: “If the international community gave a little bit of support to encourage religious leaders all over the world, wherever there are crises, to meet the belligerents, I think a lot of progress would be made.”
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