Obasanjo who was a special guest of honour at Ahmadiyya Muslim Jammat Centenary celebration/64th annual convention held at Ilaro Ogun State recently also stated that he risked his life to talk to the leaders of
Boko Haram merely because he believes Muslims are not terrorists; just as he stressed that those who perpetrate atrocities all over the world are far below 1% of the global Muslim population. He was received by the Amir, Dr, Mashuud Fashola and other leaders of the group.
‘Love for all, hatred for none’ principle
He said: “Due to its timeless relevance to our fragile world and complex country, I am particularly enamoured by your motto, “Love for all, hatred for none”.
I believe if all Nigerians can internalise the message and apply it in our day-to-day activities and interactions, we would be living a more abundant and rewarding life, devoid of the strife and tension that characterise our socio-political experience. If we all hold “love for all” sacrosanct and we are “all for love” in spite of our real and perceived differences, we would all be happy and fulfilled. If we choose otherwise, the case would just remain like that of the proverbial chicken on the rope: ara o r’okun, ara o r’adie.”
“Love is the basis of faith as it constitutes the fundamental teaching of all religions, especially Islam. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was reported to have said, “The faith of each of you would not be complete until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” This is the same message of the Golden Rule in Christianity, which means “Do to others as you want them do unto you.” The world surely needs healing from its present afflictions and it is love, not hatred that can do it.
“As no one can be more Catholic than the Pope or more Islamic than Muhammad, the message of love and peace is crucial and I urge this noble Community not to relent in championing the course of good that was championed by the Prophet.
I learnt that the lifestyle of Muhammad was that he did and encouraged all to talk softly, walk humbly, eat moderately, breathe deeply, sleep sufficiently, dress properly, interact politely, act fearlessly, work efficiently, think truthfully, believe correctly, behave decently, learn practically, plan orderly, earn honestly, spend intelligently, sacrifice regularly, serve diligently, worship, live peacefully and die faithfully.
