Muslim scholars and clerics have called for strengthened unity, tolerance, and brotherhood among Muslims across all sects and denominations in Nigeria and beyond.
This call was made during the 2025 Post-Ramadan Lecture organized by the Muslim Community of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, under the theme: “Understanding the Centrality of Unity to Islamic Brotherhood in Nigeria and Beyond.”
The event, which took place at the institution’s Central Mosque at brought together renowned Islamic scholars, public officials, academics, students, and community leaders.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr. Yunus Taliat Ayilara, esteemed Islamic scholar and Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosholand, stressed the need for unity and love among Muslims regardless of sectarian differences.
“Muslims must see one another as brothers, not rivals,” Dr. Ayilara said.
“Differences in identity—such as NASFAT, Sufi, or other sects—should never divide us. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) taught us to treat one another with the same love, respect, and care we show our family members.”
He also urged Muslims to promote interfaith harmony.
“The Prophet warned against repaying evil with evil. I have Christian workers and neighbors, and we live in peace. This is the example we must all follow,” he added.
Dr. Duro Ogunsesan, the Chief Host of the event, described the theme as timely and important in today’s divided world.
“Unity is not an option, it’s a necessity,” Dr. Ogunsesan said. “Islamic brotherhood should be rooted in empathy, cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace. That’s how we can truly move forward as a people.”
Also speaking, Alhaji Engr. Tajudeen Adeyemi Amusat, Chief Imam of the Polytechnic Central Mosque, emphasized the dangers of disunity in the Muslim Ummah.
“No community can progress when it is divided,” he said. “Islam teaches forgiveness, collaboration, and compassion. These values must reflect in how we live, work, and worship together.”
In a goodwill message, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), described Islam as a religion rooted in logic and humaneness.
“Islam is a religion of common sense,” he said. “At its core are principles of unity, tolerance, and love. If we live by these, we can build a better, more inclusive society.”
The lecture is part of The Polytechnic Ibadan’s ongoing commitment to promoting spiritual enlightenment, moral leadership, and intellectual engagement across the academic community and beyond.
Dignitaries present included Mrs. Salawu Olaide Oluwatoyin, Deputy Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan; Alhaji Soladoye Adewole, Public Relations Officer of the institution; Hon. Oluwaseun Onifade, Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government; and Hon. Adebowale Adebayo Falana, Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, among others.
Other highlights of the event included a Qur’anic recitation by students and scholars, as well as a fundraising session for the completion of the Polytechnic Central Mosque project.
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