TWO prominent Islamic scholars have proffered solutions to the plethora of challenges bedeviling Nigeria.
The scholars, the Chief Missioner of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Oyo State, Dr Bashir Olanrewaju Elesinmeta and the Grand Mufti of the Conference of Islamic Organisations of Nigeria (CIO), Sheikh Dhikrullah Shafi’I, on Sunday in Ibadan, Oyo State, at this year’s edition of the annual lecture of The Muslim Congress (TMC), discussed the theme ‘Building a Great Nation: Collective Responsibility of the Leader and the Led’.
In his lecture titled, Good Governance: Catalyst for Economic Growth and Development, Dr Elesinmeta said for economic growth, social justice and human development, good governance must be ensured.
“Good governance is the driver of the economy of a nation and a strong factor that determines the economic growth and development of a nation. Thus, it is essential for promoting economic growth, social justice and human development,” he said.
Dr Elesinmeta said to revamp the country’s ailing economy, “our leaders must reduce external loans which is a ploy for our creditors to continue to enslave us,” adding that diversification is the way to go for Nigeria.
In his lecture, the Grand Mufti of the CIO, Sheikh Shafi’i, urged Nigerians to support the government as societal reformation is the duty of individuals in a society.
The cleric implored the citizens to place emphasis on oneness of God and refrain from all forms of polytheism.
Sheikh Shafi’i stressed that equity and justice should be reestablished by all and sundry.
According to him, humility and accountability are part of the qualities of a good leader that cannot be toyed with.
“The government should provide life security, economic security, social security and health security. With these, the nation will be better,” he emphasised.
Earlier, the amir of TMC, Alhaji AbdulWasi’i Bamgbala, represented by the Oyo State waali (coordinator), Alhaji Dawud Oladosu, said, “Nigeria at present faces daunting social and economic challenges, no doubt. Millions of Nigerians live under palpable economic conditions, with families struggling daily to meet basic needs.
“Much as the government is responsible, each of us has got an important role to play in the making of our desired nation. We must hold our leaders accountable, engage them in constructive dialogue and support initiatives that promote economic stability and social justice.
“Religious bodies and civil societies must also ramp up initiatives that would foster unity in spite of our apparent differences. Together, we must fix the systemic challenges that hinder Nigeria’s growth. Whether through advocacy, community service or education, we must all step up and fulfill our roles of engaged citizenship.”
The chairman of the occasion, Mr Idris Adeoye, affirmed that good governance and economic sustainability are intertwined.
Adeoye said this is in line with the preaching of Islam as zakat and sadaqah also have roles to play in ensuring a peaceful society. He implored Nigerians to keep practising charity among them.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Special Duty, Alhaja Fausat Joke Sanni, condemned how scholars abuse one another on social media, saying this is not only misrepresenting Islam but also tarnishing the image of Nigeria.
Alhaja Sanni, therefore, called on scholars to set up a committee to checkmate social media scholars who, through uncouth attitude, misrepresent Islam and its ideals.
Dignitaries at the event included the deputy governor of Oyo State, Alhaji AbdulRaheem Adebayo Lawal, represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji AbdulRasheed AbdulAzeez; the Asigangan of Iganganland, Oba Rafiu Olaniyi Adeniyi Aako ll; and the Chief Imam of Fountain University, Osogbo, Sheikh Sirajudeen Bakrin.
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