Religion Must Not Divide Ghana --- A Call for Unity and Security
Ghana has long been celebrated as a beacon of peaceful coexistence. For generations, Christians and Muslims in our country have lived together as one community --- learning, eating, and celebrating side-by-side. Our Constitution protects freedom of worship, but more importantly, our shared values protect our unity.
Foreign Influences, New Divisions
Unfortunately, outside forces have attempted to sow religious mistrust. Some imported preachers arrived with the idea that Christians and Muslims must live and learn separately --- a message completely alien to Ghanaian culture and to both the Bible and the Qur’an. Conflicts abroad, especially in the Middle East, are also wrongly viewed as religious wars. This dangerous misunderstanding is slowly shaping local attitudes. “Our greatest threat is not religion itself --- but those who manipulate religion for power.”
Extremists Do Not Speak for Islam
Radical groups like Boko Haram, ISIS and others preach violence and hatred. Yet their actions are in total contradiction to Islamic teachings. They neither pray nor obey the Qur’an. Islam forbids oppression, kidnapping, abuse, and immoral behaviour of any kind. Across the world, respected Muslim leaders including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are calling for tolerance, mutual respect and stronger relations between Muslims and their neighbours of all faiths.
Schools: A New Frontline
Recent court cases around worship rights in schools, such as the Wesley Girls issue require calm, dialogue, and fairness. These matters should never escalate into national tension. We must remember: a school should build unity, not divide a nation.
Youth Vulnerability: A Dangerous Opening
Economic hardship, hopelessness among the youth, and harmful online influences are creating fertile ground for extremist recruiters. History shows that many terrorists were young students, targeted with money, promises, and manipulation. “A hungry child without hope is a target. A child with unity and purpose is a defender of peace.” When extremist violence erupts, it does not spare Muslims or Christians. Everyone suffers.
We Worship the Same Almighty God
Every Muslim believes in Prophet Isa (Jesus) and his second coming. Islam honours Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), the forefather of both Christians and Muslims. The Qur’an teaches clearly: “To you be your religion, and to me mine.” (Qur’an 109:6) So what exactly are we fighting over? Ghana’s unity is deeper than the differences some wish to exaggerate. Guard the peace, or lose it! Ghana must stay alert and refuse to import religious tensions we did not create. Politicians, clergy, imams, teachers, parents, and especially social media users must promote respect, not suspicion. Our peace is not automatic. It is a choice we must keep making every day.
My Thoughts
Let us never forget: unity is our greatest security. Ghana must remain a shining example to the world --- that Christians and Muslims can live together, not in fear, but in solidarity, justice, and love for country and for God.
FUSEINI ABDULAI BRAIMAH
+233208282575 / +233550558008
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Ghanaian essayist and information provider whose writings weave research, history and lived experience into thought-provoking commentary.
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