Bangladesh, Envoy Cites ,Lalon Shah’s Philosophy, Nigeria’s Unity, Amid Inter-Party Debates
ABUJA — Just days after Vice President Kashim Shettima criticised Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi for drawing comparisons between Nigeria and Bangladesh, the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, Miah Md Mainul Kabir, has stepped into the discourse.
Speaking at the weekend during an event hosted by the High Commission in honour of the revered late folk poet, musician and philosopher Fakir Lalon Shah, Kabir asserted that the mystic’s teachings offer vital lessons for Nigeria as it strives to foster national unity, promote interfaith harmony, and combat discrimination.
Highlighting Nigeria’s rich pluralism, Kabir noted that managing hundreds of ethnic groups and diverse religious traditions requires deliberate, sustained efforts toward social inclusion and mutual respect.
“Nigeria is a country of extraordinary diversity, home to hundreds of ethnic groups, numerous languages and different religious traditions. This diversity is one of Nigeria’s greatest cultural assets,” the High Commissioner remarked.
Describing Lalon Shah as a mirror of Bangla culture, the envoy explained that the poet’s philosophy centred heavily on rejecting caste discrimination and social hierarchies.
Through his famous inquiry, “Jatir utpati kothay?” (meaning “Where did caste originate?”), Lalon challenged the legitimacy of dividing humanity by inherited status, advocating instead for a society free from barriers of class, caste, and religion.
Kabir also pointed out the relevance of Lalon’s teachings in an era defined by globalisation, rapid communication, and the threat of violent fanaticism. He emphasised that the poet’s message of self-knowledge and intellectual humility is crucial for young people navigating a world saturated with competing narratives and social media prejudice.
Furthermore, the diplomat underscored the shared cultural value of music, suggesting that Bangladesh’s traditional Baul music—championed by Lalon, the “King of the Bauls”—and Nigeria’s vibrant musical heritage could serve as powerful bridges to deepen bilateral relations and cultural exchange.
Kabir reiterated that Lalon’s philosophy holds universal application for multicultural societies seeking peace and cohesion.
