Exclusive: Red Cross Symbol Not a Religious Sign – Says Red Cross Secretary as the Group Seeks Muslim Community’s Collaboration

Obiajulu Joel Nwolu

The Red Cross Society in Enugu has paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Imam of the Central mosque in the state to introduce and seek the collaboration of the Muslim community in addressing humanitarian challenges facing the state.

Speaking during the visit, the organization’s Branch Secretary, Mr Tony Udegbu, described the Red Cross Society as a ‘’voluntary humanitarian organisation that is open to all irrespective of the religion, tribe, class, or political affiliation’’.

Mr. Udegbu added that the Red Cross sign which the organisation is known for was not sign a religious sign as being misunderstood in some quarters but rather a reverse of the Switzerland flag which was adopted to honour the founder of the Red Cross, Sir Jean Henry Dunant, who was from the country.

The Branch Secretary further appealed for a synergy with the Muslim community to address humanitarian challenges in the state.

‘’Our strength as a volunteer-based organization lies in the capacity of our volunteers that can be found in every community of the state. We, therefore, seek for more volunteers from this community that will be trained on several life-saving skills that will empower them to respond to emergencies and alleviate the suffering of the vulnerable ones’’

In his remarks, the Chief Imam of the Central Mosque, Saeed Zulqarnaini, commended the Red Cross for their selfless humanitarian service which he said has been felt in every part of the country.

‘’The activities of the Red Cross are not new to us, because most of us have in one way or the other benefitted from their benevolence and I want to commend the effort and time they have devoted to serving humanity.

‘’We are open to this partnership because it will in no small measure empower our children, youths and even the mothers amongst us’’.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of the organization’s information, education, and communication materials to the Chief Imam of the state.

This post was written by Obiajulu Joel Nwolu.

The views expressed here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect our views and opinions.

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