By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Kogi State Special Adviser on Multimedia, Nda Aaron, has come under criticism following allegations of making repeated anti-Islamic remarks, with concerned stakeholders calling on the state government to urgently intervene to prevent religious tensions.
The concerns were raised by award-winning journalist and founder of the Open Dialogue Initiative, Abdullahi O. Haruna, in a statement titled “A Clarion Call Against Religious Incitement in Kogi State.”
Haruna alleged that the government aide had consistently made comments perceived as hostile to Islam and capable of provoking religious divisions in the state.
He expressed concern that such statements, particularly from a public official occupying a strategic communication role, could undermine social harmony and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, public office holders are expected to promote responsible communication, tolerance, and unity rather than engage in rhetoric that may deepen existing fault lines among citizens.
He warned that Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity and ethno-religious tensions, making it imperative for individuals in positions of authority to avoid statements capable of inflaming passions or creating unnecessary conflict.
Haruna further noted that the office of the Special Adviser on Multimedia carries significant influence in shaping public narratives and should be used to foster understanding and cohesion among diverse communities.
While acknowledging the right to freedom of expression, he stressed that such freedom should not be interpreted as a licence to promote intolerance, disparage any religion, or provoke adherents of a particular faith.
The statement called on the Kogi State Government to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action where necessary.
Haruna suggested that if the alleged conduct stemmed from ignorance, the appropriate authorities should provide guidance and caution, but if found to be deliberate and persistent, disciplinary measures should be considered.
He also urged security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to condemn all forms of religious incitement and ensure that public officials conduct themselves in ways that strengthen unity rather than division.
Haruna warned that silence in the face of persistent religious provocation could be misconstrued as approval, emphasizing the need for timely intervention to safeguard peace, mutual respect, and interfaith harmony in Kogi State.
The statement concluded by reaffirming Kogi State’s reputation as a confluence of cultures, ethnicities, and faiths, urging all citizens and leaders to preserve that legacy through tolerance, understanding, and responsible public discourse.
