The Founder of the World Peace Movement, Sheikh Ahmad Dabbach, has cautioned against the use of religion as a cover for violent attacks, stressing that Islam promotes good character, love, and peace, not violence.
Press Conference During Africa Tour
Dabbagh, a UK-based cleric, made the call at a press conference yesterday during his Africa Tour 2026 alongside a delegation of religious leaders from different parts of the world. According to him, people are using violence for other reasons either due to ignorance, money or power and they come under the guise of religion to achieve their objectives, saying the holy book does not teach compulsion in bringing others into the religion.
The Sheikh said the holy book specifically said 'don't cause chaos on the face of the earth, we should be peacemakers' saying it's important to note that if we want peace or blessing we must give it to others. He said their ideology is not to change the system or anyone but their hope is to see that everyone has a purified heart and soul.
Call for Peaceful Coexistence
The Islamic scholar further called on Nigerians to reclaim their culture of peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance, saying Nigeria was historically known for peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds, contrary to the violence, extremism and religious intolerance witnessed in some parts today. According to him, Islam spread through good character, teaching and service to humanity, and not through violence.
He cited the example of renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, whom he described as a leader that focused on moral teachings and helping people. 'During his time, Nigeria was very peaceful. There was no fighting between sects or religions,' he said. He said 'All these challenges came after the colonial era. Nigerians should reclaim the glory they once had when people of different religions lived together peacefully.'
Focus on Education and Development
Dabbagh said that colonial powers gained dominance largely because of advancement in technology, knowledge and economic strength, urging Nigerians to focus on education, innovation and economic development, knowledge, technology and economic growth. The cleric also urged followers of different religions to emulate the true teachings of their founders instead of using religion to justify violence or hatred. Addressing Christians, he said believers should reflect on whether their actions aligned with the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly the command to love one another.
Delegation's Previous Visit
Earlier, Sheikh Mohammed Obe, a member of the delegation, said the group first visited Nigeria in December 2025, touring Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, Ibadan and parts of Oyo State. Obe said the delegation returned because of the sincerity, openness and desire for learning they observed among Nigerians during the earlier visit.
