The Interfaith Mediation Centre, Kaduna, on Friday called on the Federal Government to set up a commission to monitor and regulate the proliferation of religious groups in the country.
The centre made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of a three-day capacity building workshop in Abuja.
The workshop was organised by the centre with the support of USAID for North and South Faith Based Organisations (FBOs) and Community Based Organisations (CBOs) on countering violent extremism.
It said setting up a commission was necessary as some religious sects promoted intolerant and hate speeches leading to radicalisation and violent extremism.
The communiqué said constant manipulation of religion by some elites to achieve political gain also promoted violent extremism in the country.
It said violent extremism has over time become a global phenomenon having negative consequences on many nations, including Nigeria.
The communiqué urged religious leaders to double their efforts in the discharge of their duty.
“We observe with utmost dismay the failure of appropriate authorities to promptly intervene in times of crises in some areas of the country which has resulted in reprisal attacks.
“We urge the authorities concerned to be proactive in handling such issues while we call on communities to be sensitive to early signs that can lead to crises.
“We are convinced that good governance remains the only way to ensure social justice and economic inclusiveness at all levels.
“We also observed that the problem of farmers and herdsmen clash is a serious challenge with huge security implications that required urgent concerted efforts from state and non-state actors.
“Experience has shown that prolonged unresolved conflicts have led to violent extremism,” it added.
The communiqué also called for the development of a comprehensive structure to enable families know the indicators of radicalisation.
It criticised the wrong use of the media to stereotype and criminalise certain ethnic groups, adding that this portends danger for the country.
The communiqué called on all media practitioners to adhere to the ethics of their profession in carrying out their duty.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants at the workshop were drawn from 30 FBOs and CBOs in Imo and Bauchi states, respectively.
The workshop aimed to build their capacity towards understanding the dimension and forms of violent extremism at different levels. (NAN)
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