Taoreed Abdullahi
The Chief Missioner of the Ansar Ud Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Abdul-Rahman Ahmad has urged the government of the Southwest to establish Shariah panels in their states to address the concerns of the Muslim faithful in accordance with divine injunctions.
He stated that a Shariah panel or court operates under the jurisdiction of Islam, guided by the Quran and the teachings and hadith of Prophet Mohammed.
During a Ramadan lecture organized by the Lagos Branch of the society, Sheikh Ahmad emphasized the importance of unity among Muslims regarding the matter, explained that the Shariah panel and court are intended to adjudicate issues related to inheritance, property, marriage, and other matters, specifically concerning justice and mediation among Muslims.
The cleric stressed the importance of resolving disputes and disagreements through established means, highlighting that the principles of Islam emphasize equity, justice, and fairness, stated unequivocally that Shariah is fundamentally a part of Islam.
Sheikh Ahmad pointed out the distinctions between democratic principles and Islamic teachings, indicating that both should be respected when addressing modern challenges.
To support his argument, Sheikh Ahmad cited Quran 2:143, stating that the Muslim faithful serve as witnesses of God on earth, acknowledging that while Islam has faced both extremism and liberalism throughout history, it is rooted in guiding principles that reward those who adhere to them.
He emphasized that Zakat, or almsgiving, is intended to alleviate poverty.
He urged wealthy Muslims to fulfil their Zakat obligations generously to help free individuals from hardship, suggesting that a significant amount should be involved to make a meaningful impact.
Sheikh Ahmad also noted that issues such as unemployment and the distribution of palliative measures often fail to reach those in need, while appointments in various positions appear to be disproportionately allocated, despite efforts made by individuals.
He addressed the responsibilities of Muslims toward their neighbours, emphasizing that they should love their neighbours regardless of religious differences, just as they love themselves.
The Chairman of the Lagos Branch of the Ansar Ud Deen Society, Alhaji Kamorudeen Salami, appealed to Muslims to follow Allah’s guidance in the administration of Zakat and to carry forward the lessons learned during Ramadan into their daily lives.
He assured the Muslim community in Lagos State that he would soon aid them in strengthening their faith through the establishment of a Digital Centre.