Ihab Salloum[ad_1]
Nigeria, a country blessed by the Almighty God, is made up of many parts, each associated with a different religion. The two prominent religions practiced by the majority of the population are Christianity and Islam. Unfortunately, these religions have been competing for leadership and superiority over one another. The government has been observing this religious drama unfold on a daily basis, and many leaders have been tempted to take sides, involving themselves in the murky waters of religious extremism.
In areas where Christians are the majority, Muslims cry foul, claiming marginalization. The same thing happens in areas where Muslims are the majority. This creates animosity and hostility between the two religions. In situations like these, the central government is expected to remain neutral and act as an unbiased arbitrator. A good example of this neutrality is when the Federal Republic of Nigeria seized all Christian (Mission) schools in the past. Regardless of the nature of these schools, the government acted in the interest of national unity. This decision allowed individuals who do not subscribe to the Christian religion to acquire a Western education without creating religious jealousy.
The ongoing debate about the government’s introduction of an “Islamic Banking System” has caused a rift between Christianity and Islam. The Nigerian banking sector has undergone multiple reform policies recently, but this particular reform has generated more heat than the others. Nigerians who value unity are apprehensive about the issue due to the power of religion to divide. The proposal to introduce the Islamic banking model into the Nigerian financial landscape has raised concerns due to the term “Islamic” attached to its name. Critics argue that using the term “Islamic Banking” will only fuel mutual distrust and violate Nigeria’s secular status.
The ongoing debate has created tensions between Christians and Muslims. Christians accuse Muslims of promoting Islam over other religions and attempting to Islamize Nigeria. On the other hand, Muslims accuse Christians of deviating from true Christianity by supporting the current banking system, which they believe promotes extortion.
It is important for both religions to learn to accommodate the diversity of the Nigerian nation and avoid making unwarranted remarks that could cause chaos. Building a united Nigeria requires the cooperation of all tribes and religions. Christians and Muslims should strive to live in peace with one another and appreciate any invention or discovery that advances the nation.
Calling the concept of “Islamic Banking” ominous is an understatement. It fails to serve the national interests of Nigeria. While the idea of “non-interest” banking is welcome, its religious connotations are inappropriate. The apex bank should value people’s contributions and develop a listening culture to ensure that the country’s banking sector benefits all.
The religious coloration of the banking system should be removed to safeguard against discrimination and preserve the unity of Nigeria. The government should suspend the action of the apex bank until a compromise is reached. It is suggested that a better, unifying name should be adopted, and the concept of “Islamic Banking” should be dropped. Alternatively, new banks could be established solely for the Islamic Banking System, allowing for healthy competition and customer choice.
The government should also create opportunities for religious organizations to participate in the banking sector by owning and managing their own banks according to their religious preferences. If establishing new banks is not feasible, existing banks should be given the option to choose between the current banking system and the proposed “non-interest banking” system. This will alleviate concerns about imposing a particular religion on the citizens of Nigeria.
It is essential for Nigerians to understand that their nationality is not tied to a specific ethnicity or religion. Accommodating one another means considering national interests before adopting or implementing policies. Accusations and counter-accusations from religious bodies should be put aside for the greater good of the nation.
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