A policy analyst, Mr. Young Ayo Tamuno, has urged religious leaders to actively promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence in society.
He made this call while reacting to the recent tension at Woji Community Market in Port Harcourt, where a female food vendor was attacked following allegations of blasphemy against Prophet Mohammed.
In an interview with our reporter, Mr. Tamuno expressed concern over what he described as rising religious intolerance and segregation across the country.
“Clerics of different religions should educate their followers on the importance of peace and tolerance toward differing beliefs and opinions. They should encourage their members to read and understand the content of their holy books. I believe that no religious scripture explicitly promotes violence, so religious leaders must guide their members to act with understanding and restraint,” he said.
Tamuno also urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, stressing that no one has the right to take another person’s life or destroy property under any circumstance.
Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Nyerisi Eli Woji, Eze Gbakagbaka
Contributing, the Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Nyerisi Eli Woji, Eze Gbakagbaka, described the incident as “very worrisome,” especially as it came just days after the Muslim faithful concluded Ramadan fasting and celebrations.
He noted that such actions negate the core teachings of Islam, calling on Islamic scholars in the state to speak out more strongly against violence and lawlessness among their followers.
He emphasized that “the only healing balm Nigeria needs now is peace and tolerance.”
Meanwhile, the leader of the Hausa community in Woji, Alhaji Usman Bello, has reassured the public that the Muslim community has forgiven the woman accused of blasphemy. Speaking to journalists after a meeting with the Woji community leadership, he addressed rumors of casualties.
“No life was lost, and no property—beyond the vendor’s table and food items—was destroyed. Islam is a religion of peace, and we have resolved the matter amicably. The woman will resume her business after a short period of rest,” he said.
The Woji Community Market descended into chaos last Friday, with tension spilling into Saturday, following a dispute between a female food vendor and her male counterpart. Trouble reportedly started when the woman accused the man of taking her plate, leading to a heated argument. In response, the man accused her of making blasphemous remarks against Prophet Mohammed and raised an alarm. Some Muslim youths in the market quickly mobilized, and in the ensuing commotion, the woman’s food stand, coolers, umbrellas, and other items were reportedly set on fire.
