Controversial Banner at Lekki Mosque Sparks Online Debate
Controversial banner displayed at the entrance of the Lekki Central Mosque in Lagos has caused a stir on social media. The banner reads:
“Jesus Christ is not God. He is a Prophet and Messenger of God!”
It also quotes Quran 5:72, stating:
“Allah says, They have disbelieved those who say that God is the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary. While the Messiah had said, ‘Children of Israel, worship God, my Lord and your Lord. God has forbidden Paradise to anyone who worships something else besides Him.’”
Mixed Reactions Online
The message quickly went viral, with many expressing outrage and others defending it.
- Actress Wumi Tuase shared her displeasure on social media, saying, “I find it very weird that Lekki Central Mosque has this in front of their gate.”
- Fisayo Ojabodu called the banner disrespectful, accusing it of promoting division, while Adesuwa labeled it outright blasphemy.
- On the other hand, some defended the banner. Silva Bella argued, “I’ve read the Bible many times, and I still don’t understand why people call Jesus God. He’s the son, and God is the father.”
Calls for Tolerance and Peace
Many urged for calm and respect between religious groups.
- FS Yusuf highlighted incidents of religious violence, saying, “In the last two decades, my family church has been set on fire by extremists. We must learn tolerance to progress as a pluralistic society.”
- Christ The Lighthouse shared a message of peace, reminding Christians that “the gospel is never spread by force or propaganda but through the gentle acts of the Holy Spirit.”
Opposing Views
Others weighed in with their interpretations:
- Muhammad Shaikhan emphasized unity, saying, “The beauty of this debate is that we all agree God is one. The real issue lies in the teachings of Jesus and Prophet Muhammad.”
- Abdul’fattah Muhdl’awwal added, “Jesus never said he was God. The statement on the banner is factual, not blasphemous.”
A Reminder for Dialogue
This incident highlights ongoing tensions between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria. While some view the banner as an attack on their faith, others see it as an expression of their beliefs. Calls for peaceful dialogue and mutual respect continue to dominate the conversation.
