A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has denounced the actions of ISWAP terrorists who are threatening Christians in Nigeria, stating that their behavior does not represent Islam. In a recent post, Ahmad emphasized that the terrorists’ demands for Christians to convert to Islam or face death are un-Islamic and contradict the teachings of the religion.
ISWAP had released an image of a burning Christian village in Adamawa State, accompanied by a statement declaring all Christians in Nigeria as legitimate targets. The group offered Christians the option to “spare their blood” by converting to Islam or paying the jizyah tax. This move has sparked widespread concern and condemnation.
According to Ahmad, Islam was never spread through coercion, intimidation, or violence. He cited the Quran, which explicitly states that there is no compulsion in religion. Ahmad also referenced the peaceful coexistence of Muslims and non-Muslims during the time of the Prophet Muhammad in Makkah and Madinah, where mutual respect, justice, and shared humanity prevailed.
The former presidential aide described the terrorists’ actions as a “complete betrayal of Islam” and a distortion of its values. He condemned their campaign of violence and intimidation, emphasizing that it goes against both the religion and humanity. Ahmad’s statement reflects the widespread condemnation of ISWAP’s actions, which have been denounced by many as a misrepresentation of Islamic teachings.
The situation in Nigeria remains a concern, with ISWAP’s threats and attacks on Christian communities sparking fears of further violence. The international community has been urged to take notice of the situation and work towards promoting peace and understanding between different religious groups. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential to recognize the importance of respecting religious diversity and promoting tolerance, as emphasized by Ahmad and other leaders.