Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) has refuted information that Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said pastors criticizing President Muhammadu Buhari and his government will be arrested.

NIREC Executive Secretary, Prof. Cornelius Omonokhua advised Nigerians to shun the claim credited to Bishop Dr. Olabode Daniel.

Mustapha was accused of saying from September, the Federal Government, through the police, will go after clerics using their pulpit to preach against the Buhari administration.

Omonokhua, in a statement, explained that the SGF never made such a threat at the 3rd quarter NIREC meeting.

He recalled that at the parley which took place from 25 – 27th August in Abuja, Mustapha only cautioned leaders against preaching disunity.

Omonokhua quoted the SGF as saying: “Leaders that are fond of making statements that do not in any way bring succor and comfort to our people but rather further deepening discord ought to be cautioned”.

The scribe said there was no mention of bishops or pastors, noting that Mustapha has been supporting the religious council to its mission of fostering a united Nigeria.

NIREC called on Nigerians to disregard “the propaganda” and work graciously towards the realization of a peaceful nation.

The body is co-chaired by Rev. Samson Ayokunle, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).