WATCH: Muslim Leaders Condemn Actions of Orlando Gunman

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — Shots rang out early Sunday morning as a swat members entered an Orlando LGBT night club after gunman Omar Mateen opened fire claiming the lives of 49 victims.

“This was an act of hate and of terror,” said President Barack Obama, Sunday afternoon.

According to FBI Director James Comey the 29 year-old gunman spoke with 911 operators three times early Sunday morning.

He says, “During the calls he said he was doing this for the leader of ISIL who he named and pledged loyalty to.”

Comey adds that it does not appear the incident was part of a larger terror plot, but local Muslim leaders say that doesn’t alleviate what he call’s Islamophobia caused by double standards.

Chaudhry Sadiq, President of the Peace and Integration Council of North America tells ABC Columbia, “If Dylann Roof goes ahead and shoots down nine innocent worshipers or souls, he’s not identified by his religion. On the other hand when an Omar comes in and does such a thing it is associated with his religion.”

Sadiq says Islam condemns acts of terrorism, but inaccurate portrayals and widespread misconceptions about the Muslim faith instills fear in the public.

He explains, “Islams is peace, Islam is tolerance, Islam is love, Islam is mercy, Islam is compassion.”

Sadiq is constantly working with PICNA to promote mutual understanding between all faiths and develop a de-radicalization program for Muslim youth. He’s hoping that all religions will join forces against terror.

“Our nation is made up of many faiths, people of many origins, people of various colors, class and creed by that makes it beauty. Diversity is our strength,” says Sadiq.