By Amuda Dan Sulaiman
As Nigerian Muslims join their counterparts worldwide to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1447 A.H, the Kogi State branch of the Council of Ulama’u of Nigeria admonished wealthy Muslims across the state have been enjoined to share their wealth with the poor and needy, towards the economic growth of the less privileged.
Hon. Kadi M.M. Bello gave the admonition in Lokoja on Saturday in a lecture presented at the 1447AH Hijrah Celebration organized by the Kogi State Council of Ulamau.
Hon. Bello explained that Islam encourages donating a portion of one’s wealth to those in need, stressing that this is one of the fundamental pillars of the deen.
“Charity serves as a way to bring justice balance and kindness to every society and community. It is our hope and prayer that Muslim community fulfill their charitable duty correctly and does their part to eliminating poverty in communities everywhere.
Authorities must ensure a minimum standard of living for all citizens and to create opportunities for economic advancement with the aim of having a just and equitable society.
Wealthy individuals must support their impoverished relatives and to contribute to the wellbeing of the community. Ensuring they have access to basic necessities and opportunities. In the matter of alms giving and charity preference must be given to one’s closest relations provided they are poor and stand in need of help.
According to the scholar, this singular act alleviates poverty, and further promote social justice, and foster a harmonious society.
Quoting Prophet Muhammad (SAW), “To give something to a poor man brings one reward, while giving the same to a needy relation brings two; one for charity and the other for respecting the family ties”.
Describing poverty from the Islamic perspective, Hon. Bello said it’s not only the lack of material wealth, but the inability to meet essential needs, noting that poverty in Nigeria is faced multifaceted issues which have eroded the human dignity of the citizens.
Hon. Bello commended the present administration under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for prioritizing the welfare of workers in the state, citing the prompt payment of salary and Leave Bonus.
Highlighting some of the causes of poverty and its negative effects on the society, Hon. Bello submitted that conscious measures must be put in place to assuage and mitigate the scourge.
In his remarks, chairman of the occasion and Ohi of Okene, HRH Alhaji Isah Okatahi in his opening address urged Muslims to endeavour to reflect on the significance of the Hijrah as it engenders a strong bond of brotherhood amongst Muslims worldwide.
He enjoined Muslims to demonstrate good morals, practice compassion, promote peaceful coexistence and good neighborliness, urging them to let their behavior reflect the positive values of their faith.
In his welcome address, the Chairman, Kogi State Council of Ulamau said the event was another reminder that the Hijrah is a continuous positive movement in all aspects of human.
“We must continuously shun evil acts, for good acts; we should avoid bad behavior and embrace good behavior; we should avoid greed, selfishness, and indecency in our utterances, dressings and behavior, and embrace conducts which are capable of promoting equality of all within the society; respect and assistance to the poor, sick, aged, etc”.
“Muslims must ensure proper and even distribution of wealth in the society. As Muslims, we should migrate from lawlessness to law-abiding citizens at all times and in all places.”
He commended the efforts of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his continuous support to all religious organizations in the state, and also ensuring that the State is safe and secured.
Eminent personalities from across the state including the Ohimege Igu Koton-karfe, Alhaji Saidu Akawu Salihu; Commissioners of Justice, Hon. Muizzudeen Yunus Abdullah SAN; Water Resources, Engr. Farouk MD Yahaya; Solid Minerals, Engr. Bashir Gegu, State Grand Khadi, Abdulkareem Aruwa graced the occasion.
Highlight of the event was unavailing of new Islamic calendar and match pass by both primary and secondary school students.
Watch Video Here:
Add comment