TheCable

Femi Falana, human rights lawyer, has called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to “Christianise” Nigeria by setting up interest-free banks.

Falana said this in reaction to the dust raised by the N100 billion Sukuk bond issued by the federal government.

CAN had said the issuance of the bond was an attempt to sell Nigeria to Islamic nations.

But speaking on Thursday at a strategic dialogue roundtable organised by the Social Economic Rights and Accountability (SERAP), Falana said the Sukuk bond was a legitimate means through which government could generate funds, as practised in many countries of the world.

He said religious leaders must be careful in their handling of issues, adding that Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, suspected kidnap kingpin better known as Evans, had clerics who worked for him.

“I am challenging CAN to Christianise Nigerians. Christianise us by setting up interest-free banks,” Falana said.

“Evans has a pastor, a Muslim cleric and traditional priest… because all the prayers are needed.

“Religious leaders should stop confusing our people. Our churches and traditional rulers should stop praying for thieves. This is how low we have sunk. What are we as individuals doing to stop these politicians, let’s start with Lagos, let’s start asking our legislators how much they are being paid for doing what? Let our church stop conferring honours on criminals. Also our universities should be encouraged to join in the fight.”

A fact check done by TheCable revealed that there is no conclusive evidence that Sukuk will lead to the Islamisation of Nigeria, or that it violates the constitution as CAN claimed.