Fashola: Faith should not be imposed on others

A former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has called for greater religious tolerance in society, stressing that faith should remain a personal conviction and should never be imposed on anyone.

The former Minister of Works made the call on Sunday while delivering a lecture at the annual series: “God in My Life,” in Lagos.

It was organised by the Torchbearer Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral (AVMCC), Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

Speaking on the role of faith in human existence, the former governor described God as the ultimate architect of the universe, noting that all religions are rooted in Him.

According to him, God’s presence in human life manifests in various forms, including family members, friends, associates, and institutions such as schools and workplaces that provide guidance and direction.

Reflecting on the theme of the lecture, Fashola, a Muslim, recounted his early roots in the Anglican Church and explained how those experiences shaped his personal development and influenced key decisions throughout his life.

He shared personal testimonies about his life journey, including several near-death experiences and moments of danger arising from what he described as youthful recklessness. 

He attributed his survival and eventual success to divine providence and God’s continuous intervention in his life.

Emphasising the importance of acknowledging God’s role in the affairs of humanity, Fashola challenged the audience to consider the limits of human control over life’s events.

He asked: “If God gave us the opportunity to arrange our life’s journey by ourselves, can any one of us decide which phase of our life should come first?”

He added that the very experience of living and navigating life’s uncertainties serves as a constant reminder of the presence and influence of God.

Fashola also used the occasion to advocate mutual respect among adherents of different faiths, reiterating that religion should unite rather than divide people.

In his keynote address, the Chief Host and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revd. Olusola Odedeji, commended Fashola for serving as a role model to young people. 

He noted that youths from across the diocese turned out in large numbers to participate in the event and draw inspiration from the former governor’s life experiences.

Speaking on the theme, Bishop Odedeji described “God in My Life” as a call to reflection, testimony, and gratitude.

He said: “God in my life is a call to reflection, testimonies and appreciation.

“We can be lonely but not alone.”

The annual lecture series, organised by the Torchbearer Society of AVMCC, provides a platform for distinguished Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to share personal reflections on their relationship with God and the role of faith in their journeys through business, leadership, public service, and other spheres of life.

While welcoming the guest speaker to the event, a member of the Torchbearer Society and former Chairman of Nestle Plc, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, praised Fashola for his giant strides in public service, noting his tremendous impact to the church and the state at large, during his tenure.

The event attracted clergy, professionals, community leaders, and young people from across Lagos, underscoring the growing relevance of conversations on faith, leadership, and national cohesion.