Religious leaders have crucial role in shaping moral values- Ojukwu

Religious leaders have crucial role to play in shaping moral values, particularly within the context of nation-building and promoting social harmony.

Dr Tony Ojukwu SAN, the Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), made this known on Thursday in Abuja at a one-day programme for the sensitisation and awareness creation for religious leaders.

The programme was organised by the NHRC in furtherance of its mandate of peaceful coexistence and respect for human rights.

Represented by Dr Benedict Agu, Head of monitoring unit of the commission, Ojukwu stated that religious leaders are influencers who should help to promote human rights.

Ojukwu said that religious leaders, often holding positions of influence and trust, can significantly impact societal norms, behaviors, and ethical decision-making

The programme, he said, was designed to deepen understanding of human rights principles as it align with our diverse faith.

He added also the programme is to help explore practical strategies for peace building that would provide the tools for effective conflict resolution.

” Religious leaders have always played a pivotal role in shaping moral values, guiding conscience and fostering unity.

” Your voice carries immense weight in your communities.Your teachings inspire millions of people’s dignity, compassion and mutual respect.

” In a world often divided by conflicts, inequality and misunderstandings, leadership is more crucial in bridging the divides and advocating for fundamental rights of all individuals” he said.

He said the NHRC was established by the National Human Rights Commission amended Act 2010, to promote, protect and enforce human rights of everyone in Nigeria.

He added also that the commission conducts regular sensitisation and awareness creation activities across the country to educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities.

Similarly, Mr Saka Azimazi, a human rights consultant said religious leaders were typically characterised by their deep commitment, empathy and ability to inspire.

He urged them not go to the extreme in their teachings, adding:”every leader should be in the middle cause”.

Azimazi spoke on the topic ” The role of Religious leaders in promoting human rights and peaceful coexistence.

” We will not be extremist. Not be too far, not be too close. Stay in the middle. So when you interpret anything, it was probably the most great way to ensure that people can comply.

” You should preach more truth. You should preach to ensure that people can co-exist.

” By spreading the shared values of human rights and religious teachings, we can foster a world where individuals are respected, protected, and empowered to exercise their rights and live with dignity, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds” he said.