LEMU conference tasks Muslim clerics on social rectitude

LEKKI Muslim Ummah ( LEMU) has underscored the crucial role of Muslim clerics in reshaping the country, urging them to leverage their position to ensure positive change in the society.

At the 2024 yearly Imams Conference, A book, ‘ Da’wah Etiquette from the Prophet’s Guidance’ written by the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu was unveiled at the well- attended seminar graced by imams from within and outside Lagos.

The President of LEMU, Alhaji Abdulganiy Labinjo, said the Imams have a pivotal role to play in reshaping the Nigerian society which is currently ailing.

“So many things are happening in the world today which are not right. If we follow the sunnah and what Islam teaches us, society will be in a better place. Since the Holy Prophet ( SAW) is no more, we look up to the imams and alfas for guidance.”

He noted that society is not well today because the imams are either not passing the right message or people are not getting the message.

“So, there is a need for the imams to know in order to connect with the society appropriately. If they get it right and we receiving the message also get it right, there should be a better ummah,” he said.

The Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Dr. Ridwan Jamiu, urged imams to see Islamic da’wah as a voluntary act of worship, for which they cannot enrich themselves.

He said imams should be decent in seeking wealth, and not explore ways that will tarnish their image in the society. “Propagating Islam has to be a voluntary act of worship. Some other times, it may be compulsory. The compulsory one, you don’t need to charge any money for it. The compulsory one is for members of your family, you have to admonish and guide them. It’s still da’wah. For every other person, it’s a voluntary act, and you are not also expected to charge anything for it.

“Scholars should see themselves like every other person, especially in Nigeria where Islamic scholarship is not recognised. We are doing a thankless job. In Islamic countries, they know the worth of scholars. They can place them on salaries through waqf ( endowment). But in Nigeria, that’s not the case. So, scholars should look for ways of finding their means of livelihood which must be halal. If they have the opportunity to preach, that will be great. But if they can’t combine, they should go for whatever is convenient for them. However, we should not use this as a cover to do what is forbidden and commit sins. We have to look for means of livelihood.”