₦airaland Forum

In a world often marked by division along religious lines, a remarkable temple in Nigeria is breaking barriers by standing as a testament to unity and shared faith. BABATUNDE TITILOLA writes how Christians and Muslims come together in a tapestry of worship, melding their traditions and songs in an atmosphere of acceptance and love

'‘I’m going to the church where both Christians and Muslims pray and sing together,” this reporter asked a vulcaniser whose machine was strategically placed beside a busy junction along Governor’s Road in Ikotun, Lagos State.

The artisan, with a knowing smile, corrected the reporter, saying, “The members don’t call it a church here, they prefer to call it a temple.”

After a brief exchange, the reporter carefully navigated the bustling street, and after a few turns, the red-roofed building, described by the vulcanizer, came into view.

It stood quietly in the afternoon sun, nestled amidst the hum of the densely populated suburb.

“Jehovah Allah”

Situated at the end of Lasisi Osaju Street, one of the first things that catch the eye is the modest yet meaningful signpost proclaiming, “Jehovah Allah, you are the greatest.”

This reporter discovered that this unassuming display serves as a powerful testament to the temple’s commitment to interfaith dialogue, creating a space where divides between religious communities are bridged.

It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the temple, aptly named God the Creator of the World Interfaith Ministry.

Though the worship place itself is not grand, it exudes a serene atmosphere, quietly inviting those who pass by to pause and reflect on its message.

The signpost, our reporter would later discover, is more than just a physical marker as it embodies a sanctuary where individuals from diverse backgrounds can gather in unity, fostering understanding and love in a world often fractured by religious differences and intolerance.

A peek into interfaith service

As one approaches the lone building, the air becomes thick with the harmonious sounds of worship songs blending effortlessly together.

The sunlight streams through the doors and windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colours onto the polished, clean-tiled floor.

Here, men and women, clad in a beautiful fusion of Christian and Muslim attire, gather in unity.

The sanctuary itself is adorned with intricate designs that reflect both religions’ influences.

Women in flowing abayas, embroidered with delicate patterns, sit alongside those in vibrant church dresses, their heads covered with scarves or hats—an enchanting tapestry of faith and culture.

This temple, a sanctuary of coexistence, hums with an energy that is both reverent and celebratory.

As the service begins, the atmosphere shifts, wrapping the congregation in a palpable sense of anticipation.

The leader, a charismatic figure with an infectious smile, steps onto the elevated platform. His attire is a tailored native dress that incorporates elements of traditional Muslim garb, symbolising the beautiful blending of the two faiths.

With a voice that resonates warmly through the temple, he welcomes all, stressing the importance of love, respect, and understanding.

His sermon weaves together stories from both the Bible and the Qur’an, illustrating shared values like compassion, charity, and the pursuit of peace.

The congregation listens intently, nodding in agreement, their hearts open to the profound message of unity.

As the cleric speaks, the choir, a diverse group representing both faiths, prepares to take the stage.

Their attire reflects this beautiful amalgamation — some wore choir robes adorned with traditional patterns, while others wore flowing tunics in vibrant colours.

When they begin to sing, the melody transcends barriers of language and belief. The harmonious blend of Christian hymns and Islamic songs fills the air.

The congregation joins in, their voices rising in a powerful chorus that echoes through the temple — a testament to their shared devotion.

The rhythm of the music pulses through the crowd.

As the worship continues, the unique interactions among the congregation become apparent.

A group of children, dressed in both traditional Nigerian attire and Western-style clothing, play together in the aisles.

Parents, regardless of their faith, share smiles and nods of encouragement as they watch their children dance together.

This scene is a microcosm of the temple’s ethos, where differences are celebrated and commonalities embraced.

As the congregation exits, they do so with smiles on their faces, exchanging greetings and blessings.

An Alhaji and brother

Lagos-born Alhaji Morzuq Ibrahim was the one who ushered this reporter into the temple during his visit.

Throughout, he stood quietly among the other members of the temple, who were engaged in various tasks.

Ibrahim, who claims Olasunkanmi as his Yoruba-Christian name, radiated peace.

As a committed member of the temple long before his recent pilgrimage to Hajj in late 2023, he felt a special connection to the community that had welcomed him.

Clad in a clean shirt, Ibrahim appeared to have been enjoying the good things of life since his journey into this mixed faith began more than a decade ago.

“I met the prophet about 15 years ago. I was working in Ibadan, Oyo State, but encountering some challenges,” he began, his voice echoing softly through the temple.

“I had attended other churches because I’m someone who can follow you anywhere if I believe that you’re worshipping God, irrespective of the religion. So, someone directed me to him when I came to Lagos. We spoke, and in the process, I started asking him some questions.

“We prayed, and everything we prayed about came to pass. We saw the foundations of our problems and began to see solutions,” Alhaji Ibrahim shared.

The 34-year-old was intrigued by the message that God is one and that religion should not divide humanity but rather bring people together in love and service. His voice grew richer with emotion as he recounted the day he realised that life’s problems could be solved without paying any money to anyone, carrying sacrifices, or gulping concoctions.

While many may see differences in faith as barriers, the automobile dealer learned to appreciate the underlying similarities that connect all believers.

His journey to Mecca, according to him, deepened this understanding.

According to him, among the millions gathered in the holy land, he witnessed how believers from all walks of life shared a common purpose.

Upon his return, he felt resolute in his choice to embrace the teachings woven into the fabric of the temple, where love transcends individual doctrines and fosters a community grounded in the shared belief that, ultimately, all religions worship the same God.

“We help each other grow and support each other whether you want to go to Jerusalem or Mecca. As long as you’re serving God, there’s support here,” he added.

When narrating his parents’ reaction to his decision to stick with the temple, Alhaji Ibrahim said, “Just because my parents did it this way doesn’t mean I have to follow the same path. Our perceptions are different. The research my parents were unable to do, I did, and it’s been working for me. So, people talking about what we do here doesn’t bother me.”

12-year-old temple

Saturday PUNCH gathered that the temple was established over 12 years ago. A survey around the building reveals that it is designed to accommodate both Christian and Islamic practices, as it features an architectural style reminiscent of a church, complemented by an arch at the front, similar to that of a mosque.

Findings further revealed that Muslims regularly gather at the temple to observe their daily prayers, creating a harmonious atmosphere where members of different backgrounds can connect through shared worship.

According to some members, the temple does not celebrate Christmas. Instead, it embraces New Year celebrations and observes Ramadan and Lent fasting periods.

Union aided by mixed upbringing

Our correspondent observed that a mixed upbringing helped members embrace the temple’s interfaith teachings. Many raised in diverse religious backgrounds found it easier to accept the principles promoted by the temple.

One member of the church, Mary Kemi, told Saturday PUNCH that her upbringing played a key role in her decision to embrace the temple’s teachings.

“Naturally, I don’t discriminate. I was going to mosques by myself right from primary school. My best friend then was a Muslim, and she taught me how they observe their prayers.

“My mother is a Muslim, and my father is a Christian. So, growing up together made us believe that all religions are one. When my mum wanted to go to any party, I would go there wearing a hijab. And I dressed the part whenever I went to my dad’s church,” she narrated.

So, when Kemi was introduced to the temple, she felt completely comfortable with it.

“When people ask, I tell them that I go to a place where Christians and Muslims worship. We sing both Christian and Muslim songs. I’m not imposing anything on anyone, so everyone has their own faith,” she defended.

‘Took three years before conviction’

A relative of the prophet, Ajibola Oshoba, said it took him three years to make sense of what the prophet was saying about Jesus and another entity called God, the creator.

The 33-year-old said, “He told me that Jesus is not God, but I disagreed. He said I should pray about it so God could reveal the answer to me. I did, and that was the encounter that drew me to this temple.”

The physics graduate explained that religious discrimination should be abolished in the country, adding that discrimination would lead to stunted growth.

Encounter with the founder

Our reporter was later introduced to the founder of the temple, Mobolaji Ganiyu Elijah Oshoba, who had been sitting quietly in a corner of the temple.

After exchanging pleasantries, he began narrating the history that shaped his life.

Born in the Idi-Oro area of Mushin Local Government Area in Lagos, he recounted the formative years of his life with a blend of pride and humility.

“I started my secondary school education at Nigerian Model High School in Idi-Oro before transferring to Idi-Araba High School,” he said, reflecting on an educational journey marked by its share of challenges.

At just 13 years old, his life took a tragic turn when his father passed away at the age of 33.

As the second of eight children, he felt the weight of responsibility early in life. He explained that his mother supported the family and introduced him to PZ Industry, where he began his career in electrical electronics.

Amidst the struggles and the backdrop of a mixed-religious family—his father a Muslim and his mother a Christian—the seeds of his interfaith vision were quietly taking root.

“I grew up going to church with my mother, and in those moments, I found a genuine love for prayer and a yearning to draw closer to God.

“I was moved when I noticed that Muslims, Christians, and even traditional worshippers all claim to serve God, yet we still witness chaos and suffering in our nation.”

This, he said, ignited a spark within him, compelling him to ponder the true essence of faith and its potential to foster harmony. It was this insight that eventually led him to establish the temple.

Three prayers, three visions

“It happened in December 2009. I was praying for the peace of Nigeria and asked God to show signs if He was truly God by bringing peace to Nigeria,” he began.

“I could not serve a God who couldn’t take care of my nation or give us peace. So, I made the prayer.”

That night became a pivotal moment in Oshoba’s journey, as he claimed a haunting dream reshaped his mission.

“I saw President Olusegun Obasanjo announcing that the nation had been divided into two.”

Suddenly, he said he heard the thunderous sound of marching feet, causing the ground beneath him to shake.

“When I looked up, I saw soldiers coming, and panic rose within me. I tried to escape,” he recalled.

In his frantic search for safety, he said he spotted a terrified, naked little boy, no older than a year.

According to the 60-year-old prophet, just as he reached out to save the child, two soldiers seized him — one grasped his head while the other clutched his legs — and gruesomely tore him in two.

“I woke up shocked,” he said.

After the first dream, Oshoba resumed his prayers, asking God to guide the country towards peace.

“To cut the story short, after the prayer, I went back to sleep and had another dream,” he quipped.

Oshoba narrated two more dreams he had that night.

Oshoba’s reality check

Upon waking, Oshoba connected the dots of three dreams.

“I realised that God was talking about the three religions,” he reflected.

He said these religions had failed to fulfil their divine purpose.

Determined to uncover the truth, he diligently read the Quran more than 10 times, followed by an equal commitment to the Bible.

“God began to open my eyes,” he shared, stating that despite the misguidance, there was a profound love from God for His people.

He claimed that Nigerians are genuinely striving to serve God but had been led astray.

The father of seven said through his studies, he began to perceive the true nature of Jesus differently.

“I didn’t see Him like that before,” he admitted, realising that his upbringing had shaped his understanding.

He noted that it was this vision that ignited his mission to reach out to Muslims, Christians, and traditional worshippers alike.

The cleric said he recognised that joining any church or mosque might lead him back to “exhorting the creatures more than the creator.”

Oshoba told Saturday PUNCH that the Quran, a book of peace, had been misinterpreted by some, and urged believers to read it with a heart aligned with love and understanding.

“If you read it very well with a love for peace, you will understand better.”

‘God is one with no religion’

Oshoba said while the Bible and the Quran may not align verbatim, they share significant similarities.

He argued against the notion that Allah is an idol, asserting that no idol claims to be the creator of human beings, while Allah does.

The cleric explained that Allah is the term for God Almighty in Arabic, just as Eledumere and Chineke refer to God in Yoruba and Igbo, respectively.

He believed that divisions among these faiths stem from language barriers and manipulation by those in power.

Oshoba questioned the effectiveness of the gods worshipped by Nigeria’s religious leaders, stating that a true God wouldn’t permit slavery.

This belief, he noted, inspired him to create a sanctuary for worship without rituals or sacrifices, focusing solely on calling on God.

He referenced Jesus’ teaching that there would be a time when believers would seek God directly.

He also addressed the conflict between Muslims and Christians, adding that while some Muslims label Christians as infidels for claiming Jesus as God, his understanding is quite different.

He pointed out that when Jesus stated that He and the Father are one, it signifies a spiritual connection rather than identity.

He said, “God does not have a religion. There is no portion in the Quran or Bible where God said someone would be called a Muslim and another, a Christian. Jesus was not a Christian when he was alive.

“Was Jesus Christ really his name as the Messiah? My research showed that the messiah who came to Israel in Jerusalem spoke two languages, Aramaic and Hebrew. I believe his parents also spoke those two languages. So, they did not give him an English name. They named him Yeshua. So, who changed the name to Jesus?”

The prophet added, “We do not use the name of Jesus to pray in this temple. We only use the teachings of Jesus because he is our teacher. He is our Rabbi, which means teacher. He is the Lord too, which means teacher. Mohammed is the Lord of Islam because he was and still is the person that God (Allah) uses.

“The major challenge was running around, trying to convince people to follow the vision God showed me. I went to many pastors and religious leaders.”

Domainer1999:
2 Factor Authorization.

MightySparrow:
Which kind jehovah wàhálà be this one again. The problem of Jehovah's witnesses full ground before.

Ehn?!

iwaeda:
90% of Muslims read Bible.

iwaeda:
➜90% of Muslims read Bible.

OKOATA:
Light and darkness don't mix, don't be surprised that a few years down the line you won't hear anything about this anymore.

Kobojunkie:
I doubt this very much! The Christians much like the Muslims rather get their digest of the content of the books contained in the bible from the interpretations of their religious leaders. The average Muslim is as clueless as the average Christian of the actual contextual contents of the books of the bible.

iwaeda:
➜I am from Kwara, anyone that wants to be honest will confirm this.

Kobojunkie:
Which one is light and which one is darkness? Using Nigeria as an example, isn't it clear that the lack of light in both the north and south automatically implies none of the religions followed by the people constitute light? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

OKOATA:
Mr sacarsm. Chocho Cho no dey tire you. Better go and marry kobojunkie.

Hambivert:
The Christians believe Jesus Christ is tlthe son of God and that he came to die for the sins of mankind. That is the bedrock of Christianity.
The Muslims do not believe so.

This interfaith ministry is already a foolish undertaking if the ministry don't preach Jesus as the Son of God.

bassdow:
I was here