The Muslim Council of Elders under the Chairmanship of the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb strongly condemns the terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in the town of Owo in southwestern Nigeria on Sunday which led to tens of casualties and injuries. 

The Council reiterates its categorical rejection of such terrorist attacks which contradict the teachings of all religions as well as international laws and norms which allow for the freedom of religion and forbid the targeting of places of worship. Such issues are also addressed and affirmed in the Document on Human Fraternity which was co-signed by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and His Holiness Pope Francis in Abu Dhabi in 2019. 

The Muslim Council of Elders thus strongly condemns such acts of terrorism and calls on the international community to unite in the face of violence, extremism, hate and terror. The Council also extends its condolences to the families of the victims of the attack while praying for a speedy recovery for the wounded.