Ramadan: Opportunity to promote peace, unity-Shari’ah Council

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The Council said it’s not in support of violent protest against the government, suggesting dialogue and constructive engagement with governments to address relevant concerns, and insisted that Islam recommended peaceful means for solution to challenges with the government or political leaders.

A statement from the Council indicated that the suggestions was contained in a communique released at the end of the annual pre-Ramadan meeting of the Majlis Ash Shurah, organized by SCSN in Kaduna.

SCSN President, Sheikh Abdurrasheed Hadiyatullah, who signed the communique further challenged Nigerians to channel their grievances through peaceful avenues, thus fostering a culture of tolerance and cooperation for the betterment of Nigeria.

He said: “We should in unison, keep appealing to our governments to take concrete steps to address the issue of corruption, leakages and wasteful spending. Corruption is like a cancer, which destroys everything noble and undermine the principles of good governance.

“It’s perfectly justified to ask our leaders why should Nigerians be made to bear the brunt of insecurity considering that trillions of Naira being spent on the security agencies without positive result or accountability? Why should Nigerians suffer difficulties from power failure and its skyrocketing cost considering that over $20bn wasted on power without positive results or accountability?

“Undoubtedly, we cannot reasonably expect solutions to issues bedeviling our lives until our leaders summon the political will to address the issue of corruption, whenever, wherever and whoever is involved.

“As a religious body, one of our core objectives is to see to the realization of a stable Ummah and country that is economically, socially and politically viable. And in spite of the formidable challenges facing our nation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to contribute to its success through constructive engagement with key stakeholders at all levels.”

He appealed to the Ulamas (Islamic scholars) to meticulously convey and elucidate on relevant messages to Muslim brethren, including the imperative need for Muslims to turn to Allah with sincere repentance and unwavering devotion.

He said: “We earnestly implore our esteemed Ulamah to exemplify the highest standards of methodology during Tafseer activities in view of the pivotal role of religious leaders in guiding the Muslim Ummah, especially during this sacred time of spiritual reflection and enlightenment.

“We, therefore, beseech you to employ a compassionate and inclusive approach to ensure that messages resonate with the diverse audience within the community. The Tafseer sessions should serve as platforms to promote unity, tolerance, and understanding among followers emphasizing the core values of Islam such as compassion, justice and kindness. These inspires positive change and enhance the spiritual experience of Ramadan for all believers in Nigeria.”

He emphasized the place of prayer for lasting peace amidst the myriad socioeconomic challenges gripping Nigeria. “Muslims across Nigeria should seek refuge in their faith, through perseverance, fostering a deep connection with Allah through earnest repentance and heartfelt supplication.

“In the sanctity of prayer, the community can unite in beseeching divine intervention for the resolution of the country’s challenges. This spiritual resurgence should serve as a beacon of hope, guiding individuals towards a path of righteousness, resilience, and the pursuit of peace in our beloved nation.”