*Hilaal
(Crescent) Islamic Center is located at Hilaal Street, behind the Old
Herald Office, near Flower Garden, G.R.A, Ilorin.
INTRODUCTION:
A'udhu Billahi Minasshaitani Rrajim, Bismillahi Rahmani Rahim.
In the name of Allah, the most Gracious,
the Merciful. We bear witness that there is nobody worthy of worship except
Allah. We equally testify that the leader of Mankind, Muhammad saw, is the last
Messenger of Allah sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam, and His Apostle. May Allah, subhanahu
wata'aala continue to shower His abundant blessings upon the soul of the
Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam, his Household, the Companions and the
entire Muslim Ummah till the Day of Accountability.
We thank
Almighty Allah Who made it possible for us to complete this year's Annual
Ramadan Lectures organized by Hilaal (Crescent) Islamic Center, Ilorin for the
benefit of its facebook members and the entire public. May He not make this
year's edition our last on earth. May He grant us many more years of
opportunity to maximize rewards through this medium.
Although
the modern communication media are highly beneficial to the entire human race,
its negative effects on our lives and future as Muslims are immeasurable. A
critical examination of the genesis and the prevalent negative role of the
social media show that, part of the aims and objective of the West is to take
away our religion (Islam) completely from us and replace same with fasaad
(mischief) through the use of the internet facilities.
Several
spiritual crimes are committed through the internet. Prominent among the
negative effects of the modern communication facilities is free-mixing among
men and women of different religious and moral background. Many of our Brothers
and Sisters have been polluted with great spiritual problems. Muslim sisters
upload their pictures indiscriminately on the internet giving unknown men free
access to their images and beauties in the face of strong proscription from the
Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet, sollaLohu alaihi wasallam. By all
ramifications, Islam forbids all forms of unethical and unrestricted
interactions with opposite sex without blood relation or other than for the
sake of Allah, subhanahu wata'aala.
It has
been noticed that these bad trend spread by the modern communication gadgets is
responsible for the decrease in the rate at which Muslims care about their
religion. This is one of the reasons why places of worship and tafseer gatherings
are always scanty during and after the month of Ramadan.
It is
in view of the above that the Management of Hilaal (Crescent) Islamic Centre,
Ilorin came up with the initiative of organizing daily Islamic programmes on
our facebook group page, throughout the period of the Holy month to divert the
attention of Muslim youths from frivolous activities on the internet to the
remembrance of Almighty Allah.
The
peak of the programmes is the "Daily Symposium" where several critical
issues were discussed by invited lecturers. This was a golden idea targeted at keeping
Brothers and Sisters busy with rewarding activities on facebook throughout the
period of the month of blessings. Even though there are many Islamic forums on
facebook where Muslims benefit so much during and after the month of Ramadan,
the need for this nature of programme cannot be over-emphasized. The rate of
ignorance of the tenets of the pristine Islamic faith among the Muslims of this
generation is alarming. It is our hope that the programme would reform members
of the ummah
in the month of Ramadan and further assist them to become better Muslims after
the Ramadan period.
This
programme started last year with limited success. But with special Glory to Almighty
Allah, our last year's achievement was consolidated this year with full
participation of the members of the forum on facebook and beyond. The
programmes were not meant to impress anybody other than Allah, subhanahu
wata'aala. We pray Allah in His infinite mercies to reward the organizers,
contributors, commentators and observers abundantly. May He make our efforts in
this rewarding project a testimony for us and not against us on the Day of
Resurrection. Amin.
In the
Daily Symposium aspect of our Ramadan programmes, we had not less than thirty
papers presented by different discussants on various topical issues affecting
Muslims in Nigeria and other parts of the world. While some of the topics dealt with the
understanding of the fundamental principles of Islam in accordance with Quran
and Sunnah, others addressed current issues as it affects the Muslims in
Nigeria/Islamic world and probable solutions were suggested to them.
Some of the
matters examined and treated at what we can call "Facebook Islamic
Conference" and the suggested solutions would be discussed under the
following headings:
(1) PROBLEM
OF CORRUPTION IN NIGERIA:
The Conference
noted with dismay high level of corruption in Nigeria. In a short, but concise
paper delivered by Bro. Alabi Abdullateef Olanrewaju, a graduate of Accounting,
Yaba College of Technology on ''The Bane of
Corruption in Nigeria: Islamic Solution'', it was noted that whenever we hear about corruption,
our minds quickly goes to our public places and the rapid embezzlement therein.
Bro. Abdullateef said corruption goes beyond that in Nigeria. In his words he
stated:
"It is like a virus in a system of a
computer or mobile phone, no one prays for it because its effect is damaging.
Every single person in Nigeria nowadays is living with this corruption virus.
As a result of this, our citizens are bane of suspicion everywhere in the
world"
The discussant went further, expressing the fact that
corruption is the major cause and result of poverty around the world. It occurs
at all levels of our society; from local councils to the state and federal
governments, civil societies, the judiciary, legislature, large and small
businesses, military and other spheres of our lives. The conference observed
that lack of proper implementation of justice and punishment of corrupt top
government officials further promotes the spread of corruption in Nigeria.
While proffering Islamic solution to the endemic nature
of corruption in Nigeria and other parts of the world, Bro Abdullateef remarked
thus:
"All the historians who studied the
history of Arabia, Islam and Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be
upon him) have agreed unanimously that Islamic rule (C.E.630 to 664)
established by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and continued
by Caliphs Abu Bakr, Umar Bin Khattab, Usman Bin Affan and Ali Bin Abu Talib
was free from corruption and best ruled the world has ever witnessed"
The Holy Qur’ān
warns mankind against corruption in the following verses:
“And let
not those who covetously withhold of the gifts which God hath given them of His
Grace. Think that it is good for them: Nay, it will be the worse for them: soon
shall the things which they covetously withheld be tied to their necks like a
twisted collar, on the Day of Judgment” (Q3:180).
One the Day of
Judgment, human beings will be asked regarding their wealth. Wealth should be
utilized properly. It should be utilized for human welfare, progress and
development. On analyzing the attitude of non-believers towards wealth, Allah
states:
“And
verily, he (man) is violent in love of wealth”. (Q100:8).
(2) THE
MEDIA AND BOKO HARAM CRISIS IN NIGERIA
Taking a critical look at the media and the management of Boko
Haram crisis in Nigeria, one will no doubt agree that the Nigerian media is
playing both negative and positive roles in giving information to the public
about the activities of the group, about government and public responses to the
activities of the group.
Today, different adjectives have since been used to describe the
group and its activities since the insurgence several years of ago. It is not doubt
that since the killing of Muhammad Yusuf, Boko Haram crisis degenerated to the
extent that the group keeps on regrouping, re-strategizing and killed several
people and destroyed properties, media houses, police and military formations
inclusive.
Our own stand on this issue is that Islam a religion does not
preach violence. It is a religion of peace that condemns killing of innocent
souls (Muslims or Non-Muslims). It is very unfortunate that the media ascribe
the activities of the so called Boko Haram group to Islam.
In a paper titled "The Media and Management of Boko
Haram crisis in Nigeria", Bro AbduRosheed Okiki, a reporter
with Radio Kwara, Ilorin stated thus:
"To effectively manage Boko Haram crisis by the Nigerian
media therefore, media practitioners that are involved or will be involved in
reporting the crisis should seek proper knowledge about the origin, operations
and development of the group. It is believed that doing this will open the
minds of reporters to distinguishing between what is true or false and project
the impact of such report on social harmony. The Prophet (SAW) said: “A person
who believes in Allah and the Hereafter should speak about good things or keep
quiet.” (Bukhari)"
Bro. Okiki opined that Nigerian media should re-invigorate their
machineries towards playing mediatory role in ending the Boko Haram crisis in
Nigeria by distinguishing properly between propaganda and truth, verify
incidences of bombings and other violent acts to actually know whether it was
perpetrated by the group or not before going to the press.
Nigerian media should not shirk in their responsibility as the case may be and
called the government, Boko Haram and other stakeholders to order on the need
to end the crisis through dialogue as many wars are not won on the battle field
but on the table (not war-war but jay-jay).
(3) LAXITY,
MODERATION AND EXTREMISM ISLAM:
One of the
major problems facing the Muslim ummah is the activities of the extremists
among some Islamic groups. Islam equally condemns slackness, reckless and
rashness in the practice of the religion. As a matter of fact, while entering
into Islam in full with strict adherence to the provisions of Quran and Sunnah
in Islam is unconditional, Muslims are encouraged to be moderate and avoid
exceeding limits set by Allah in the practice of their faith. In a related
presentation, Bro. Eseoghene Al-faruq Ohwojeheri, a graduate of
University of Benin noted that "moderation" is how a Muslim should practice his
faith as distinct from "extremism" and "laxity". Moderation
is to maintain the middle course of things because Allah described us as
“Ummatan wasata” (i.e. the balanced community). While describing what it means
for the Muslims to be moderate, he stated thus:
"This is why we love
Allah but we don’t call Him "our father" since He is not. This is why
we observe prayers but we don’t have to scream like the kuffar and some
Assalatu groups who are imitating the kuffar. This is why we give charity but
we don’t abandon our families too. This is why we fast and we break it. This is
why we go to Hajj when we have the means, and if we don’t have the means, we
won’t have to go"
Going to the extreme is to do things in
excess of the standard Allah and His Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi wasalam set
down for us. We should not try to do more than the level of the Prophet,
sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam. The Prophet said about doing things in excess: “Beware
of excessiveness in religion. [People] before you have perished as a result of
[such] excessiveness" The people referred to above are the people
of other religions, especially Ahlul Kitab [the People of the Book]; Jews and
Christians and mainly the Christians. The Qur'an addresses these people:
“Say: O People of the Book! Exceed not in
your religion the bounds [of what is proper], trespassing beyond the truth, nor
follow the vain desires of people who went wrong in times gone by who misled
many, and strayed [themselves] from the even Way".
(4) PROBLEM OF DIVORCE IN OUR SOCIETY
The conference noted that one of the greatest problems of
the Muslim ummah today is impatience as it relates to divorce. These days,
marriage among couples fails due to many factors. Some of the factors that are
responsible for the prevalent divorce in our contemporary society are lack of
proper understanding of Islamic principles of marriage, breach of trust and
intolerance. We have become an impatient people not ready to work on our
marriages. Over the years, we have become emotionally unstable.
Whatever the case, the destructive effect of divorce is
obvious all around us. The children are adversely affected, the involved
parties are affected and family relations are left in state of helplessness.
Obviously Allah has allowed divorce and no doubt there are times when it is
necessary, especially when physical violence is involved or if the marriage is
beginning to affect ones physical, mental or spiritual well being.
Sis. Umm Maryam Abdul delivered a
paper on "Alarming Rate of Divorce in our Society: Islamic
Solution". She blamed lack of effective communication and
negligence of gender roles for the high rate of divorce in our society. She stressed the need for kindness and compassion
between couples in order to avoid the danger of divorce. She said and I quote:
"The society we live in puts a lot of pressure on us to
conform to certain standards, she expects her husband to earn X amount and to
afford this that and the other, he expects his wife to speak a certain way,
look a certain way and behave a certain way and if this is not satisfactory
then problems arise. However, if we see each other as brothers and sisters,
just as we tend to accept all sorts from our family members we will also
overlook so much from our spouses.
Kindness is a trait many of us have lost due to our high expectations, for if
we have a spouse who is not reaching those lofty heights we are rude,
obnoxious, arrogant and dismissive of them and this only cause more hurt and
makes them even less likely to please us and then begins a vicious cycle of
unhappiness"
It has been noticed that many
couples today do not understand themselves properly before jumping into
marriage. It is the duty of both parties to examine each other properly within
the limits set by the shari'ah and ensure they would be able to live together
peacefully without enmity and discord. It is difficult for couples not to have
misunderstanding sometimes. But they must have a unique way of settling their
differences before it gets out of hand.
Men do not perform the
responsibilities Islam place on them, likewise women. It is the duty of men to
maintain their wives and the entire family. Women must begin to see themselves
as the first school for the children. Negligence of these two (2) important
roles may occasion misunderstanding, and misunderstanding may lead to divorce.
(5) MUSLIM SISTERS AND ISLAMIC
WAY OF DRESSING
Muslim parents have great responsibility in ensuring
that their children dress properly in the ways and manners prescribed by the
Shar'iah. It is always disheartening and unfortunate seeing our sisters from
Muslim homes dress against the requirements of the shari'ah. In this kind of
situation, the first impression that comes to mind is that those sisters seen
dressing abnormally are not properly trained or that they joined bad wagons in
schools.
The western ways of life have infiltrated our lives to
the extent that we imitate the kuffaar in all aspects of human endeavors. One
of the prominent areas of imitation is the mode of dressing. An ideal Muslim
sister is one who care, learn and practice the Islamic ways of dressing.
Sis. Nimatallah King, a Lagos based Sisters' Da'wah Coordinator presented
a paper on "Muslim Sisters and Proper Mode of Dressing in Islam". She noted that as Muslim
women, their duty and utmost priority is to worship Allah according to His
dictates, which dressing according to the guidelines of Allah is at the top of
the scale. Muslim
women enjoy enormous rights from the shari'ah and they must protect that right
always. Sis. King stated and I quote:
"The Muslim woman has been held to a high esteem. She is to
be respected and treated kindly by all. Her father is to raise her with sound
Islamic education and astounding morals, her husband is to take-care of her,
feed her and clothe her within his means, and her Muslim brothers (non-mahram)
are to lower their gaze and comport themselves in her presence. All these are
rights that the obedient Muslimah enjoys by the will of Allah"
Based on the provisions of the Quran and
Sunnah of the Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam, the scholars have resolved
on the rules guiding our sisters' mode dressing as folllows:
1. Her entire body must be covered- According
to Quran 33:26 , Allah commands women to screen their entire body from the view
of others. Some scholars agree that only the face and hands should be
uncovered, while other scholars insist that the face must be covered as well.
If a woman is dressed provocatively in public, she begins to attract lustful
gazes, which can be detrimental because a sin is recorded for her for every
lustful gaze that she deliberately invites to herself as a result of her choice
of clothing.
2. Her clothing must not be transparent – See through clothing defeat the
entire purpose of Hijab. It does not cover the body efficiently and it could
make a woman appear enticing to men. Ladies, if your underwear is visible under
your blouse, please don't wear it....because it is haram.
3. Her clothing must not be tight – Abu Hurayra (May Allah be pleased with him)
narrated from the messenger of Allah (May the peace and blessings of Allah be
with him), who said, “During the last days of my ummah there will be women who
are clothed but naked, with something on their heads like the humps of camels.
Curse them, for they are cursed.” Another hadeeth adds: “They will not enter
Paradise or even smell its fragrance, although its fragrance can be detected
from such and such a distance” (Sahih Muslim). Clothed yet naked describes
women that wear tight or see through clothing that emphasize their body
parts.
4. Her clothing must not resemble the clothing of men - Abu Hurayrah said:
“The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon
him) cursed the man who wears women’s clothes, and the woman who wears men’s
clothes.”
This can be challenging for those that live in
societies that are gender neutral for the most part. Nowadays, women fashion
inspiration is derived from men's wear, from wrist watches to neck-ties, from
shoes to hats e.t.c. But no matter what, our love for Allah triumphs over the
deceit of the fashion world. We still can find clothing that is appropriate; we
just have to do a little more searching.
5. Her clothing should not resemble the clothing of the non-believers - A
Muslim woman should distinguish herself from non-believing women by adopting
the dress and character of the wives of the Prophet and the Sahabiyyah (may
Allah be pleased with them) because they are the ones that are to be emulated.
6. Clothing should not be worn for fame or pride – The Muslim woman is to be
humble. Her clothing is a means for her to earn the pleasure of Allah alone. She
should not dress to show off or oppress others. Ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be
pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah
be upon him) said: ‘Whoever wears a garment of fame and vanity in this world,
Allaah will clothe him in a garment of humiliation on the Day of Resurrection,
then He will cause Fire to flame up around him.'”
7. Her clothing must not be flashy – Women should avoid excessively decorated
garments that may draw men's attention to her. This can be quite tricky for
some women, simply because the standard for “flashy” differs from one society
to another and from person to person. However, some general standards exist. We
can all agree – to an extent – that 'over the top' sequin, 'over the top'
rhinestones, an item that feature ALL the colors of the rainbow, full-face
make-up, crazy-weird prints, weird styles, all attract major attention. Also,
if you think certain clothing is over the top, and then chances are, it is
truly over the top.
All these could be found in the detailed
presentation by Sis. Nimatallah King. May Allah reward abundantly.
(6) ISLAMIC DA'WAH PERSPECTIVE AND METHODOLOGY:
One of the major problems we have noticed in
the Muslim community today is the unethical manners by which the work of da'wah
is being handled by some so called scholars. Some of our scholars are imitating
people of other religion, commercializing the work of da'wah. While some take
huge wage before attending any lectures, some stylishly extort money from their
followers and adherents. This has no basis in the Quran, Sunnah and the
exemplary qualities of the Sohaabah.
Sis. Maryam Abiodun Omolade presented a paper
on the topic "Concept of Da'wah: Islamic Perspective and
Methodology". Based on clear shari'ah evidences, Sister Maryam outrightly
condemns the act of getting pay for lectures to be delivered. She describes the
habit as unethical and shameful in the eye of the shariah. She noted that
da'wah is not done for wages or material compensation. It must be done for the
sake of Allah and Allah would reward it accordingly. However, if money or any
other material things comes to a scholar by way of assistance of the cause of
Allah voluntarily from the congregation or well to do Muslims, he can take it.
But he must fear Allah on how he will manage it.
It must also be noted that da'wah should not be
understood to be a forceful struggle to convert people to Islam. The alleged
call by some groups that the Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan must resign
or be ready to practice Islam is laughable, unbelievable and lack basis in
shari'ah da'wah methology. A proper understanding of the concept of Da'wah will
remove misconceptions about how Islam is propagated. It shouldn't be enforced upon
people to come to Islam. We read in the Qur'aan what means. The Quran says:
"But
if they turn away (O Muhammad). We have not sent you as a watcher over them
(i.e to take care of their deeds and to recompense them). Your duty is to
convey (the Message). And Verily, when We cause man to taste of Mercy from Us, He
rejoices thereat; but when some ill befalls them because of deeds which their
hands have sent forth, then verily, man(becomes) ingrate!" {Qur'aan
42;48}.
It should be noted that there is no compulsion in
religion. Sis Maryam said our duties in da'wah are limited to the conveyance of
the message. We Muslims also believe that embracing Islam is due to guidance,
which only occurs by the Grace of Allaah. Allaah 'Azza wa Jall says;
"Verily,
you (O Muhammad) guide not whom you like, but Allaah guides whom He wills. And
He knows best those who are guided". {Qur'aan 28; 56}
"There
is no compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right Path has become distinct from
the wrong path. Whoever disbelieves in Taguth and believes in Allaah, then he
has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that will never break. And Allaah is
the All-Hearer, All Knower". {Qur'aan 2; 256}
(7) FEMALE GENITAL CIRCUMCISION:
It is a matter of common knowledge that a war is raging, with extremists on both sides, over the issue
of circumcision. On one side are fanatic secularists whose antipathy to
religion has induced them to engage in a crusade against all forms of
circumcision, including male circumcision, as a form of child abuse. On the
other side are ignorant traditionalists who erroneously subscribe to religious
belief and submit to cultural traditions involving horrific forms of female
genital mutilation (FGM, which they defend as a form of "female circumcision").
In between the extremes are many well-meaning people confused about the actual
nature of the scientific evidence and the religious prescriptions regarding all
sorts of practices involving any form of cutting in the genital areas.
During a professional presentation by Bro.
AbdulMumin Ya'qub, a final year student of Medicine, University of Uganda
on the topic "Female Genital Mutilation or Circumcision: Where Does
Islam Stand?", we were made to understand that circumcision is one of the Sunnan of the fitrah, as is
indicated by the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon
him):
"The fitrah is five things – or five things are
part of the fitrah – circumcision, shaving the pubes, plucking the armpit
hairs, cutting the nails, and trimming the moustache." narrated by
al-Bukhaari (5889) and Muslim (257).
Therefore, our position on this issue is that circumcision
is prescribed for both males and females. The correct view is that circumcision
is obligatory for males and that it is one of the symbols of Islam, and that
circumcision of women is mustahabb but not obligatory. There are reports in the
Sunnah which indicate that circumcision for women is prescribed in Islam. Bro.
Abdulmumin stated that:
"In Madeenah there was a woman who circumcised women
and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to her: “Do
not go to the extreme in cutting; that is better for the woman and more liked
by the husband.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (5271), classed as saheeh by Shaykh
al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.
In another version, the Rasul is reported to have said "Cut off only the
foreskin (outer fold of skin over the clitoris; the prepuce) but do not cut off
deeply (i.e. the clitoris) for this is brighter for the face (of the girl) and
more favorable with the husband." (Al-Tabarani, quoted in Muhammad
Naasiruddeen Al Albani Silsilat al-Ahadeeth Al-Sahihah, Al Maktab Al-Islami,
Beirut, Lebanon, 1983, vol. 2, Hadeeth no. 722).
Bro. AbdulMu'min, quoting a female Gynaecologist Sitt
al-Banaat Khaalid went further to state the benefit of female circumcision as
follows:
1. It takes away excessive
libido from women
2. It prevents unpleasant odours
which result from foul secretions beneath the prepuce.
3. It reduces the incidence of
urinary tract infections
4. It reduces the incidence of
infections of the reproductive system.
Nonetheless, it clearly forbids severity in circumcision and bases such
limitation on both the potential to harm the woman and the potential to make
her less desirable to her husband. Yet, despite the restriction against
severity, the Prophet did not here prohibit circumcision completely.
(8) PROSPECT OF ISLAMIC BANKING
SYSTEM IN NIGERIA:
One of the issues that has generated much controversy
in the Nigerian polity is the constitutionality or otherwise of the operation
of Islamic Banking in Nigeria. While Nigerian Muslims see it as a great
opportunity for us to implement one of the most fundamental branches of Islamic
law, Christians in Nigeria see it as a ploy by the Central Bank Governor to
Islamize Nigeria.
We want to state categorically that establishment of
Islamic Banking in Nigeria does not in any way amount to Islamization of the
country. It is the fundamental right of Nigerian Muslims to enjoy a shar'iah
compliant financial institution. In view of the clear constitutional provision
that guarantees freedom of religion, the recent decision of the Federal High
Court which purportedly outlawed the practice of Islamic Banking system is
surprising and untenable.
Bro. Abdullateef Aliyu,
a graduate of Mass Communication, University of Ilorin and a Reporter with National
Pilot Newspaper delivered a paper on the topic "Operation of Islamic
Banking System in Nigeria: The Journey So Far". Concerning the
unnecessary controversy that trailed the floating of Islamic Banking system, he
expressed the view that it is disturbing that a noble idea like this capable
of propelling the economic growth of the country at a time we face multifarious
challenges in all facets of life could be a matter of controversy. Does it mean
there are people who are averse to seeing Nigeria coming out of its present
economic doldrums? For how long will the country continue to hover in
unemployment, stunted and scuttled industrial development contributing largely
to our youth unemployment? How has the conventional banking system contributed
to the growth of the economy and solved the unemployment time bomb threatening
to explode and implode the most populous black race?
On the achievement recorded so far in the operation of Islamic
Banking system in Nigeria, Bro Abdullateef said and I quote;
"Notwithstanding
the jaundiced and bigoted opposition to Islamic Banking operation in Nigeria,
it is gratifying to note that the CBN remains unfazed. The apex bank stuck to
its gun and went ahead to grant licence to the first Islamic Bank in Nigeria,
Jaiz Plc to operate. The bank which commenced transaction in January this year
took off with three branches- namely Abuja, Kano and Kaduna. The bank says it
is also targeting opening 13 branches in the North East and North Western part
of the country before the year winds up to expand its operational scope and
provide more access to Nigerians"
It is our strong believe that Islamic Banking system
has come to stay in Nigeria and no amount of intimidation and condemnation from
the enemies of Islam would stop its growth in this country. Just
last month (July), the bank targeted $49.1m (8bn) in fresh capital through a
private placement in order to secure a national license- according the Bank MD.
Currently, Jaiz only has a licence as a regional lender which it hopes to
convert to a national license. What gladdens our heart is the commitment of
Islamic Development Bank (IDB), an international Islamic Finance Corporation,
to increase its stake in the bank just like other shareholders reportedly
willing to invest more in the bank. These are good tidings indeed but it
doesn’t stop at that.
This is where the responsibility of me and you
comes in if we desire to sustain the system and make it competitive with the
so-called conventional banking in terms of strong capital base. As Muslims, it
is not enough to cry out over the opposition to Islamic Banking. How can we
contribute to the sustenance and growth of the bank? This is a poser which
requires no much introspection but to part with our money to provide strong
financial backing for the bank.
(9) PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE IN NIGERIA
Islam means peace and total submission to the Will
of Almighty Allah. Peaceful co-existence among Muslims and Non-Muslims in any
given society is one of the aims and objectives of the shari'ah. The erroneous
belief being spread by the local and foreign media that Muslims are mischief
makers in Nigeria should be corrected as a matter of urgency. The media should
stop accusing Islam for any crime or atrocity committed by any individual or a
group of Muslims.
Historically, the Islamic State of Madinah was a
multireligious society thus setting a model for us and an important example for
present day Muslims. The Community comprised of Jewish tribe (mainly Banu
Qaynuqa, the Banu Qurayza, and Banu Nadir.) and pagan arabs the Aws an khazraj
then the Muslims led by the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). The Aws and khazraj, the two Arab tribes are always in
conflict with each other, the Jewish tribes, treacherous as they are (even till
this day) fought on different sides of the conflicting Arabs, the Qurayza
siding with the Aws (protecting their economic interest and investment is
paramount to them than peace between elements of the society).
Therefore, anyone who ascribes
violence to Islam and the Muslim community is suffering from an incurable
disease of ignorance. Ibn Ishaq recorded that after his arrival in 622,
Muhammad established a compact, the Constitution of Medina, which committed the
Jewish and Muslim tribes to mutual cooperation. The parties though not yet
Muslims, agreed that the Prophet (pbuh) be the arbitrator of their dispute.
In a paper titled "Peaceful Co-existence
in Multi-religious Society", Bro. Sodiq Omoola, a graduate of
law, Bayero University Kano stated that the Constitution of Medinah is the
earliest known written constitution. It was drafted in 622, and concerns the
rights and responsibilities of the Muslim, Jewish, and other Arab and tribal
communities of Medinah during the war between that city and its neighbours. The
most important points with respect to the geographically close Jews were:
1.The Jews will profess their religion and the
Muslims theirs.
2. The Jews shall be responsible for their
expenditure, and the Muslims for theirs.
3. If attacked by a third party, each shall come
to the assistance of the other.
4. Each party shall hold counsel with the other.
Mutual relation shall be founded on righteousness; sin is totally excluded.
5. Neither shall commit sins to the prejudice of
the other.
6. The wronged party shall be aided.
7. The Jews shall contribute to the cost of war so
long as they are fighting alongside the believers.
8. Madinah shall remain sacred and inviolable for
all that join this treaty. Should any disagreement arise between the
signatories to this treaty, then Muhammad shall settle the dispute.
9. The signatories to this treaty shall boycott
Quraish commercially; they shall also abstain from extending any support to
them.
10. Each shall contribute to defending Madinah, in
case of a foreign attack, in its respective area.
11. This treaty shall not hinder either party from
seeking lawful revenge.
Subsequently, the Multi religious society of
Madinah was able to agree against all odds on mutual co-operation, and they
were able to repel the Quraysh of Makkah.
The Muslims believe that it is not permissible,
under any circumstances whatsoever, for a Muslim to mistreat a non-Muslim who
is not hostile towards Islam; so the Muslim should not commit aggression
against him, or frighten him, or terrorize him, or steal his wealth, or
embezzle him, or deprive him of his rights, or deny him his trust, or deny him
his wages, or withhold from him the price of his goods when buying from him or
withhold the profits of a partnership if he is in a business partnership with
him.
It is our duty to call non-Muslims to Islam with
wisdom, preach to them in the most beautiful manner, that is better as Allah
says in Surah Ankabut (Q29v 46): “And argue not with the people of the
Scripture (Jews and Christians), unless it be in (a way) that is better (with
good words and in good manner, inviting them to Islamic Monotheism with His
Verses), except with such of them as do wrong”
The Prophet Muhammad is a harbinger of mercy and
justice to the whole of mankind
"And
We have not sent you except as a mercy to mankind" (Q21:107).
Muslims are to extend such to other human
irrespective of their creed or believe. No one should be denied his or her
right because of his or are religion.
“And
I am commanded to do justice among you. Allaah is our Lord and your Lord. For
us our deeds and for you your deeds" [Q42:15]
(10)
AL-MAJIRI AND
REFUTATION OF BEGGING IN ISLAM:
The issue of Almajiri and high rate of begging among Muslims,
especially in the northern part of Nigeria need special attention. The greatest
misconception here is that whenever a person from the southern part of Nigeria
travels to the north and see the so-called Al-majiri system and the rate at
which begging is institutionalized in the predominant Muslim north, his
assumption and thinking is that Islam encourage begging. This kind of
impression is wrong and unfortunate.
In a bid to educate the public and correct this erroneous belief, we
invited Bro. Abdulhameed Al-Gazali, a graduate of History, University of
Maiduguri to present a paper on the topic "Almajiri Problem and
Refutation of Begging in Islam".
In his lengthy presentation, he defined the term
"Almajiri" as follows:
"Literally, Almajiri means student, as is also referred
to in Kanuri, Ma’aajir. And technically, it is said to be corrupted away from
the Arabic word “Almuhajirun” (as are many other Kanuri and Hausa words),
meaning Emigrant (Aisha, 2012). However putting it in the rightful context is
necessary as emigrant may not necessarily refer to what we mean. Thus, whereas
an emigrant in the wider sense is any individual or group of, who move out from
their place of living to settle somewhere else permanently, for various
political and socio-economic reasons; in the context of Almajiranci, the
individual purposely travels out or made to, from his home and look elsewhere,
in the bid to acquire the Knowledge of the Holy Qur’an. The belief in this
instance is that, one will concentrate the more when he is away from home—a
belief held by many scholars, up to this day (Aisha, 2012).
By extension however, this concept is not only restricted to
the Almajiris, it is virtually the same with students in the Universities and
other institutions who travel elsewhere in the quest for knowledge. The only
difference, if at all there is, being that the former seeks for Qur’anic
knowledge in a Tsangaya, and the latter, Western, in the University. The
Tsangaya in those days—before the advent of western education, is no less than
a University. Muhammad Al-Amin El-Kanemi, an erudite Islamic scholar, has
established and run a Tsangaya that attracted students (the Almajiri) from
almost all over West Africa—indeed what would have been equivalent to a
University today, in Ngala, in the erstwhile Kanem-Borno Empire; the same did
Sultan Muhammed Bello in Silame (Alkali, 2004; Adamu, 2004). So in essence, the
system of Almajiranci or Tsangaya system of education, has remained a noble
educational institution, and in the rightful tone of Islam, until the
Imperialist Scramble for Africa"
Bro. Abdulhameed drew a clear line of difference between the
meanings of Almajiri (leaving a place in the bid
to acquire the knowledge of the Holy Qur’an) as explained above and
"bara" or "rook" (begging). He stated and I quote:
"The term begging, roko (general term for
begging in Hausa) as against bara (the Almajiri begging) in Hausa, is nothing
but that dishonorable and shameful act of soliciting for food, money, clothing,
everything, from other people, because of laziness and heartlessness—very few
of us don’t. We have to here acknowledge that begging is not restricted to the
Almajiris only, there are varieties of them—common to many people. There are
they: there is the case of disabled men and women courtesy of polio and other
preventable diseases; there is the praise-singers, who shamelessly call
themselves “Yan roko”—you see them in wedding ceremonies, political gatherings,
offices…; the newly conceived Internet begging and etc; in fact, those who roam
about from one office to another, “begging” for appointments, contracts and
money are deservedly beggars (Ahmed, 2007)"
According to the paper, begging was unknown to the people of
northern Nigeria until the emergence of the imperialist who came to exploit the
people and destroyed the Islamic institutions north. Part of what is responsible for high rate of begging in the north was
that before the coming of the colonialist, the responsibility of taking care of
the students of Arabic and Islamic education is upon the northern Traditional
Rulers. But after the colonialists succeeded in passing over to themselves the
powers and responsibilities of the state from the traditional rulers, upon whom
the responsibilities of catering for the Almajiri and running the Tsangaya
rests, the system stood stripped of its economic lifeblood and to this day, so
it has remained. The imperialists having reduced the Traditional government to
virtually nothing, passed over to themselves all other responsibilities of the
state except perhaps that of the catering for the Tsangaya, which they did not
only neglected, but hated with all passion and set to be utterly outdone, but
for the determination of some of the conservative scholars and parents. The
traditional rulers having lost their powers, the power that to date is not
restored to them could not carter for the Almajiri anymore, and coupled with
the newly conceived idea of Kaura gabas, the Almajiri and the Mallam had to
find ways to fend for themselves outside their home.
Although Islam does not stop anyone
from travelling out of his community to acquire knowledge, especially the
knowledge of Shar'iah, which in fact the Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam
said is a duty of every of Muslim’:
“Seeking for knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim”
(Narrated by Ibn Majaa’ – 220)
However, begging, whether as a
occupation or part of seeking for knowledge (Almajiranci) is wrong. Islam
strongly disapproves of it, unless perhaps on three very strict conditions: (1)
The person who is indebted because of acting as a guarantor for a person or
community and cannot pay their debts; (2) The person whose properties were
destroyed as a result of disaster; and (3) A person who becomes poor and which
is acknowledged by those who know them. Besides these categories of people, it
is completely impermissible for any other person to beg (Muslim, Zakkat, 109).
Islam encourages us to work hard and
earn a living. The Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam throughout his life
encouraged us to work and always warned against begging:
“It is better for one among you to bring load of firewood on his back and give charity
out of it (and satisfy his own needs) and
be independent of people than that he
should beg from people, whether they give
him anything or refuse him” (Muslim,
Zakkat, 107)
In another related ahaadith, the
Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi wasallam also told us of what would be of those who
refuse to heed and keep to begging as occupation, in the Last Day:
”Some among you do not ever abandon begging. Finally on the Day of Resurrection,
that dishonorable person will meet Allah with no flesh left on his body.” (Muslim,
Zakkat, 103)
“Whoever continues to beg
people for their property in order to accumulate much property, surely asks for piece of fire.” (Muslim, Zakkat, 105)
Our position on the Almajiri problem
is that the little attention given to the system by the government in recent
time is highly commendable. However, much of the achievements declared are
being over publicized, exaggerated and marred with unethical game of politics.
Our own concern is that government must be sincere in their intention to bring
the danger pose by Almajiri syndrome down to the least minimum and sustain the
Aljmajiri welfare package.
If the government of Nigeria cannot
find space to accommodate the Tsangaya school system, it should pass it on to
the Traditional rulers who in the first place fashioned and embraced it and
provide them with all the required resources. It appears that the Traditional
institutions have the best mechanism with which to handle this very sensitive
issue. They have the advantage of being closer to the people or the Almajiri
than any other person. They are more trusted and respected by the community and
so heard of. In essence, they are in control of whatever it is that is going
within their local communities.
(11)
ON-GOING
SYRIAN CRISIS:
As Muslims, we must always be concerned about the
condition and welfare of our fellow Muslims anywhere in the world. Our Muslim
Brothers and Sisters are suffering in several parts of the world. The heat
generated by the Arab Spring in several parts of the Muslim world is
unprecedented in history. It first started in Tunisia, then Yemen, Libya,
Egypt, Syria and so on. Many lives were lost in the various uprisings. May
Allah have mercy on the departed soul. Amin
The case of Syria is most unfortunate and very disturbing.
Since the crisis started over a year ago, it is still on-going. In a bid to
sensitize Muslim ummah in Nigeria on the on-going Syrian crisis and for us to
know what is expected of us, we invited Bro. AbdulHakeem Igho In-Man
Owhojeheri, a graduate of law, to address us on "The Expected Role
of the Muslim World in On-going Syrian Crisis".
The massacre in Houla province June this year, for
any of us who saw it was something horror. It wasn't good at all. Women and
small children were killed like chickens. Both the government and opposition
blamed each other for the heartless attack. But what is very sure was that it was
an attack carried out by either of the two (2) conflicting groups in
retaliation of a previous attack.
Our own stand on this issue is that Islam forbids all
forms of violence that bring a society to her kneel like that of Syria. It is
disheartening that majority of Muslims all over the world have neglected
Islamic guidance in the Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet, sollaLohu 'alaihi
wasallam. Many Muslim nations of the world that supposed to serve as role model
to other nations by practicing Islamic Shariah have chosen to follow their
whims and caprices. That is the genesis of the Arab Spring. It is also painful that
the Kuffaar are the ones determining the fate of the Muslim nations. The reason
for this is not far-fetched. The Muslim nations have failed to judge with what
Allah has revealed and Allah would not change a people except they are ready for
change.
The Syrian President, Bashar Al-assad cherish his
power so much, he doesn't want to leave despite the fact that many of his
officials have defected to the opposition. The UN/Arab League Envoy, Kofi Annan
had to resign when his six (6) points peace plan couldn't work. While Russia,
China, Iran says Al-assad should remain in power in the face of increasing
number of casualties, United States and its allies are saying he must leave.
Where do we go from here?
In his earlier cited presentation, Bro
Abdulhakeem stated I his paper and I quote:
"The only leverage Russia has against what they
refer to as “Saudi influenced wahhabism branch of extreme Islam” is their cozy
relation with Shia-Iran and Syria authority. With Syria and especially Iran
growing power in the Middle East, the influence of Russia is secure in the
region"
"Russia does not want Syria regime to be replaced by an Islamist rule just
like the Americans. The only different is in respect to their respective
interest and the cowboy attitude of Americans of shooting their way out of
every crisis. As we can see there are so many interests at play in Syria, but
as they tussle it out, the crisis on ground intensifies. Scores of helpless
Muslims are caught in the crossfire thousands have been killed mainly by
government troops and government support militias. The violence has crossed the
border into Lebanon where Sunni groups and Alawite Sect slug it out on the
streets"
Bro. Abdulhakeem suggested our expected role as
Muslims in the crisis as follows:
1. Our first duty as Muslims is to pray that Allah
rectify our affairs.
2. We have to identify our problems and think outside the box for solutions.
Democracy is not the Solution to our problems, the Shari’ah is. We must work to
model a political system for the Muslim world that is 100% in line with the
Shari’ah and yet still acceptable to others to emulate.
3. Our Leaders must wake up. We are tired of leaders
that runs to find help in the west when face with just a simple headache. This
was the attitude of the Arab League when Syria became a problem. The lack of
leadership in the Muslim world is one of the greatest undoing of our time. Most
Muslim countries are ruled by spoilt brats and western indoctrinated rulers who
cannot tolerate correction and will go after an ant with a sledge hammer.
4. We have to unify our ranks and not allow trivialities come between us.
"And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allah (i.e. this
Quran), and be not divided among yourselves, and remember Allah's Favour on
you, for you were enemies one to another but He joined your hearts together, so
that, by His Grace, you became brethren (in Islamic Faith), and you were on the
brink of a pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus Allah makes His Ayat
(proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.,) clear to you,
that you may be guided."
5. We have to identify our enemies and not get carried
away by emotions. Our enemies are America, Russia, Israel and co. it does not
include Iran and Basher Al Assad Government. The atrocities of Basher Al Assad
military and supporters have to be stopped by the Muslims by whatever means
possible but it must not be with the help of the West, Russia and China. They
are all Devils with different names. Just imagine China banning Muslims from
fasting Ramadan wants to help Muslims of Syria, it does not follow.
6. We have to readdress our attitude towards Iran. Iranians have unjustly
suffered prosecution, isolation and 30 years of several degrees of sanctions
from the west. Iran have suffered this long because they carry the title of
being called “Muslims” (despite their Aqidah issues) and for their support for
the Palestinian cause. Islam demands that we stand by them in the face of
threat from nuclear armed Israel backed by the great Shaytan (US) and the rest
of the west. For there to be a peaceful resolution of the conflict Iran has a
part to play.
CONCLUSION:
The above are the least we could cover in this
communiqué. There are some other vital issues discussed that we have exempted
here due to the fact that a common ground has not been found on them. We hope
this communiqué would go a long way to sensitize the ummah on a number of
current issues and many areas of unnecessary controversy in our polity.
The administrative team wish to inform all our
discussant that there will be a special screening on the papers presented at 1st
and 2nd Editions of the programme. The best articles would be chosen
for the publication of our first Journal. Therefore, any of our discussant who wishes
to amend or upgrade his article only has five (5) days from today to do so.
Tentatively, our targeted period for the formal
presentation of the journal is after Eid El Adha. May Allah make it easy. Once
again, we pray Almighty Allah to reward all of us that contributed to the
success of our programmes this year. It is our sincere hope that you will
always respond to our calls in subsequent editions.
Abdullahi Abdullateef
As-sudaisiy
Organizing Secretary,
08062303042
