Vatican City (Fides Service) - Nigerian born Cardinal Francis Arinze, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments, gave a statement to Fides Service with regard to Muslim attacks on Christians in Nigeria, with regard to the Miss World Contest. The Cardinal, for years head of the Council for Interreligious Dialogue, was recently in Nigeria to take part in the national Eucharistic Congress. Here is what the Cardinals aid to Fides: "What has been happening in Nigeria in the past few days is very sad. In no way can violence and even less murder be justified in the name of religion. It is true that the editorial published by This Day, was a provocation for the Muslim community. Moreover one could ask if it is a good idea to hold a similar event during the Ramadan month of fasting and prayer. It is necessary to respect religious traditions and customs. Today Nigeria has serious problems to face, much more important than any beauty queen competition. The events of the past few days could help the civil and religious leaders to reflect on how to serve the country better. One thing is certain, violence is not the path for the present or for the future". (Fides Service 23/11/2002)