By Awwal Umar Kontagora Residents of Niger State have been urged to remain law-abiding and refrain from any form of rebellion ag...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Residents of Niger State have been urged to remain law-abiding and refrain from any form of rebellion against constituted authority.
The call was made by Dr. Umar Farooq Abdullahi during the closing session of the 1447AH Ramadan Tafsir of the Holy Qur’an, delivered in the Nupe language under the auspices of the Nupe Tafsir Organisation at the Bosso Estate Jumu’at Mosque, where the programme has been held for several years.
Dr. Abdullahi, who is the Chief Imam of Bosso Estate Jumu’at Mosque and National Secretary of the National Imam Forum, stated that Islam emphasises obedience to leaders as long as such obedience does not contradict the commands of Allah, noting that this principle forms the foundation of peace and stability.
Speaking on the current economic situation, he acknowledged the patience and resilience of Nigerians, particularly residents of Niger State, amid rising cost of living. He urged citizens to remain responsible and objective in their political choices during elections.
He also advised Muslims against abstaining from voting, describing such calls as misguided. According to him, eligible voters should obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the electoral process. He further urged leaders to fulfil their campaign promises and uphold the oath of office.
On the security situation, the cleric called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to address insecurity across the country. He cited incidents of bomb attacks in Borno State and the activities of bandits in Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, and parts of Niger State as areas of concern.
Dr. Abdullahi also highlighted the challenges of poverty, inadequate electricity supply, and economic hardship, urging the government to prioritise policies that would improve the living conditions of citizens.
He further cautioned leaders against tribalism, greed, and mismanagement of public resources, stressing the need for fairness and justice in governance.
The cleric also condemned actions by some individuals allegedly seeking foreign intervention under the guise of religious persecution, describing such moves as harmful to national unity.
Commenting on the forthcoming elections, he said Islamic leaders are closely monitoring political developments and would speak at the appropriate time, while reiterating their stance against violence and rebellion.
“We will participate in the electoral process peacefully and responsibly,” he said.
Dr. Abdullahi commended Islamic organisations in Niger State for their unity and cooperation in addressing communal issues, urging them to sustain the spirit of togetherness.
He also praised the Niger State Government under Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago for its support to religious activities and efforts toward promoting peace, particularly in areas affected by insecurity.
The Tafsir committee, during the event, honoured individuals who have contributed to the growth and continuity of the Nupe Tafsir programme.
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