Muslim Scholars Affirm Islam’s Rejection of Violence at Lagos Conference

Muslim scholars and religious leaders from four continents have issued a unified statement affirming that Islam rejects violence and criminal acts, during an international conference held in Lagos. Participants stressed that linking Islam to acts of terror or crime represents a serious distortion of the faith’s core teachings and ethical foundations.

The declaration was made at the 17th International Islamic Conference, which brought together more than 20,000 scholars, thinkers, and clerics from Nigeria, the United States, the Middle East, and Europe. Over four days, discussions focused on authentic Islamic doctrine and contemporary ideological challenges, particularly narratives that associate Islam with violence and extremism.

Speakers emphasized that Islam upholds the sanctity of human life and promotes justice, peace, and coexistence. They warned that misrepresenting the religion fuels hatred and threatens social harmony in diverse societies. The conference also highlighted the role of education and youth engagement, urging the use of modern communication tools to promote accurate understanding of Islam and counter misleading and extremist narratives.