“Practice What Islam Preaches” — Dr. Rukuba Calls For Genuine Peace In Plateau

A prominent political and community voice in Plateau State, Dr. Samaila Achigak Ahalu Rukuba (Alh. Rukuba – Jakadan Zaman Tare), has called on Muslims and adherents of all religions to uphold the true teachings of their faiths by embracing peace, justice, and mutual coexistence.

Speaking amid growing concerns over insecurity and religious tension in Jos and its environs, Dr. Rukuba expressed deep concern over what he described as the dangerous trend of justifying violence in the name of religion. He emphasized that Islam, in its purest form, stands for peace, mercy, and justice not hatred, bloodshed, or destruction.

“Muslims must practice what Islam truly teaches,” he stated. “You cannot claim faith and at the same time embrace wrongdoing. It is either you stand for righteousness or for destruction, you cannot combine the two.”

Dr. Rukuba, who identified himself as a proud Muslim, stressed that his position is rooted in the fundamental principles of Islam. According to him, any individual regardless of religious affiliation who promotes or justifies violence does not represent the true essence of religion.

He further condemned the rising culture of selective outrage, where individuals denounce violence from one group while supporting it from another. “If you condemn violence from one side but admire it from another, then you are part of the problem,” he said, adding that “wrong is wrong, no matter who commits it.”

The community leader reiterated that violence has no justification under any circumstance, noting that no religion, tribe, or ideology should be used as a cover for acts of terror and destruction. He urged both Muslims and Christians to reject all forms of extremism and work collectively toward lasting peace.

“For me and my family, our path is clear, we choose peace, always. Peace is peace; there is no version two, no exception,” he declared.

Dr. Rukuba concluded by calling on residents of Plateau and Nigerians at large to rise above religious and ethnic divisions, unite against violence, and promote values that foster harmony and national development.