Prominent Islamic scholars from across Nigeria convened in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, on Tuesday for the inaugural Ilorin National Muslim Peace Conference 2024.

Hosted by Dr Alabi Salihu Hammed of Kwara State University, the event brought together influential Islamic leaders to promote unity and harmony among scholars and groups within the Muslim community.

The conference featured distinguished participants, including the Grand Mufty of Ilorin, Sheikh Suleiman Onikijipa; the Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Justice Abdulateef Kamaldeen; Professor of Law and Shariah Consultant, Ustadh Abdulrazzaq Abdulmajeed Alaro; National Missioner of Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Ahmad Abdulrahman; and the National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Centre, Abuja, Sheikh Fuad Adeyemi, alongside other notable scholars, academics, and government officials.

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In his address, Sheikh Onikijipa urged Muslims in Kwara State to abandon unnecessary rivalry and unite under the banner of Islam, as exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Professor Alaro highlighted the importance of peace for scholars, preachers and educators, stressing that, “We need peace to effectively deliver the message of the religion of peace.”

He urged learning from the Prophet’s decisions during the Treaty of Hudaibiyah, emphasising sacrifice, tolerance and focus to achieve progress.

Sheikh Abdulrahman called on scholars to avoid interfering in politics and recommended disciplinary measures for preachers who use social media to incite violence in the name of Islam.

Sheikh Fuad underscored the significance of peace, not only for religious purposes but also for political stability and economic development.