In a world often divided by religious differences, a unique temple in Nigeria stands as a beacon of unity, bringing together Christians and Muslims in a shared space of worship and harmony. BABATUNDE TITILOLA explores how this temple fosters an environment where diverse traditions and songs blend seamlessly, creating a tapestry of acceptance and love.
“I’m heading to the place where Christians and Muslims pray and sing together,” this reporter mentioned to a roadside vulcanizer near Governor’s Road in Ikotun, Lagos State. The artisan, with a knowing smile, corrected, “They don’t call it a church here; it’s a temple.” Following his directions, the reporter soon arrived at a modest red-roofed building nestled in the bustling suburb.
“Jehovah Allah”
Located at the end of Lasisi Osaju Street, the temple’s signpost reads, “Jehovah Allah, you are the greatest.” This simple yet profound statement reflects the temple’s mission of interfaith unity. Named God the Creator of the World Interfaith Ministry, the temple may not be grand in size, but its serene atmosphere invites reflection and connection.
Inside, the air is filled with harmonious worship songs, blending Christian hymns and Islamic chants. Sunlight streams through the windows, illuminating a diverse congregation. Women in abayas sit beside those in vibrant church dresses, while men in traditional attire join in worship. The sanctuary, adorned with designs reflecting both faiths, hums with reverence and celebration.
The service begins with a charismatic leader, dressed in a blend of Christian and Muslim attire, delivering a sermon that draws from both the Bible and the Quran. He emphasizes shared values like compassion, charity, and peace. The choir, a mix of Christians and Muslims, sings in unison, their voices rising in a powerful chorus that transcends religious boundaries.
Children play together in the aisles, their laughter a testament to the temple’s ethos of unity. As the service concludes, congregants exchange smiles and blessings, embodying the spirit of coexistence.
Alhaji and Brother
Lagos-born Alhaji Morzuq Ibrahim, who also goes by the Yoruba-Christian name Olasunkanmi, is a devoted member of the temple. Having recently returned from Hajj in late 2023, Ibrahim shared how his journey to Mecca deepened his appreciation for the temple’s teachings. “I met the prophet 15 years ago when I was facing challenges in Ibadan. Someone directed me to him, and through prayer, my problems were resolved,” he recounted.
Ibrahim emphasized the temple’s message of unity, stating, “We help each other grow, whether you’re going to Jerusalem or Mecca. As long as you’re serving God, there’s support here.” Despite initial skepticism from his family, Ibrahim remains steadfast in his belief that all religions worship the same God.
12-Year-Old Temple
Established over 12 years ago, the temple’s architecture reflects its inclusive mission, blending elements of churches and mosques. Muslims gather here for daily prayers, while the community observes New Year celebrations and fasting periods like Ramadan and Lent, avoiding traditional holidays like Christmas.
Members often credit their mixed upbringing for their openness to the temple’s teachings. Mary Kemi, a congregant, shared, “My mother is a Muslim, and my father is a Christian. Growing up, I learned to appreciate both faiths. When I joined this temple, it felt natural.”
Encounter with the Founder
The temple’s founder, Mobolaji Ganiyu Elijah Oshoba, shared his journey of faith. Born into a mixed-religious family in Lagos, Oshoba’s early experiences shaped his vision for interfaith unity. After losing his father at 13, he found solace in prayer and a deep connection to God.
In December 2009, Oshoba claimed to have received three visions during a night of prayer for Nigeria’s peace. These dreams, he said, revealed the failures of the three major religions and inspired him to create a space where people could worship God without division. “God does not have a religion,” Oshoba asserted. “Jesus was not a Christian, and Mohammed was not a Muslim. They were messengers of God.”
Oshoba’s temple focuses on direct worship, free from rituals or sacrifices. He encourages believers to read the Quran and the Bible with an open heart, emphasizing their shared messages of peace and love. “We do not use the name of Jesus to pray here,” he explained. “We use his teachings because he is our teacher, our Rabbi.”
Through his temple, Oshoba hopes to bridge the divides between faiths, fostering a community grounded in the belief that all religions ultimately worship the same God. In a world often fractured by religious intolerance, this temple stands as a testament to the power of unity and shared faith.