The Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque in Lagos State, Ridwanullah Jamiu, has addressed the controversy surrounding a banner displayed on the mosque’s premises that read, “Jesus Christ is Not God.”
Jamiu clarified that the banner, along with others featuring Quranic and Hadith verses, was meant to educate Muslims and not provoke any group.
The banner, however, sparked widespread debate online, with many interpreting it as a direct affront to the Christian faith.
In response to the uproar, the mosque replaced the banner with one that read, “Allah is the Lord of Jesus,” explaining the rationale behind the change.
Speaking via his X handle, Jamiu emphasized the banners’ purpose, “If you go outside there you see many banners. These banners are to educate you, to educate ourselves and to educate the children congratulations. As you come in you learn something, going out you learn something.
“It is not only Friday alone you come to learn. We have people who come here once in a while.
“When you come to Lekki Central Mosque, at least you should learn something. You pass by the banners outside, you look here and there, you learn something because Islam treasures knowledge,” he told the congregation.
Jamiu noted that following the viral spread of the banner’s image, he received calls from local authorities, including the area command and local government, urging its removal, especially due to the festive period.
He reassured the public that the mosque’s intent was to peacefully propagate its beliefs, not incite discord.
“It was not placed there just yesterday. It has been there for about two months or thereabout. We are peace-loving people, we don’t provoke anyone. We only propagate our name,” Jamiu stated.
The Chief Imam reiterated the Muslim belief in Jesus, known as Isah in Islam, as a revered prophet and messenger of God, not a deity.
“If you don’t believe in Jesus, you are not a Muslim. We are Muslims and anything we believe must be in consonance with the Quran and the Quran says Jesus Christ is not God, he’s a messenger of God. We quoted this verse in the banner. Is there anything wrong if we paste what we believe on our territory to educate our congregation? It’s a verse of the Quran. This is freedom of religion, freedom of speech,” Jamiu explained.
In light of the situation, the controversial banner was eventually removed to foster peace and comply with government directives during the festive period.
Despite this, Jamiu clarified that the decision was not due to fear or intimidation but rather a step towards maintaining harmony.
“We are going to modify it and put it back. We are not cowards,” he assured.
A member of the Lekki Muslim community, Tunde Alabi, later confirmed the banner’s removal in an online video, putting an end to the immediate controversy while signaling the community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.
