7TH EDITION OF VOICE OF THE MIMBARR: NIGERIA CURRENT CASH AND FUEL SCARCITY: APPEAL FOR CALM- BY DR. RAZAQ BOLAWAYE

20-07-1444AH/10-02-2023CE

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, most Merciful.

Sequel to the last edition on the current National cash swap and fuel deregulation policies that put Nigeria's economy in mess, there is great need  to appeal for restrain in approach and dispositions at this time.

Amidst incessant troubles in various quarters, this is the moment Muslims are expected to show-case their evergreen subtleness for others to emulate.

The situation calls for calm and remaining focus. Whereas, the holy Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:"Islam is fervent admonition. When asked, He replied: from Allah (SWT) and the Messenger; and for the leaders of Muslims and their generality." (Ahmad 4:102/103)

The import of this Hadith is not only that leadership and follower-ship concept is complementary but also that any shortfall in their duties and responsibilities is rebuked. 

Adding to that is the fact that the situation appears unexpected. The noble Messenger (SAW) once advised: "Whoever is witness a leader coming forth with inhuman policies can only detest such policies but it is not good from him to disobey or cause unrest." (Ahmad 6:24/28).To this end, any act of disobedience, unrest or uncivilized actions is anti-Islam.

Furthermore, the noble Messenger Muhammad once insinuated while telling the Companions that:" It shall soon come upon you leaders you know and who formulate detestable policies. They asked:'Then what is your kind advice in such situation, or shall we take up arms against such leaders?' He said: 'No, give them due rights of obedience and pray unto Allah that is always there for you.' This type of provisions abound in the books of Hadith. Complete and unalloyed obedience and loyalty appear the only solution to unfavorable policies from leaders. (Bayan Huqua al Umarai, Saudi Arabian Authority, 2015, p20).

Yet, Allah strengthens our Iman when He commands: "Sue for perseverance, enjoin goodness and turn away from the societal stigma and ignorant. And that whenever any Satanic principal comes to your mind, rebuke it and seek refuge in Allah, for HE is oft Hearing, Knowledgeable." (Qur'an 7:199-200).

Above all, we can submit with the Islamic mythological inference that:'Whoever seeks friendship of worth should look towards Allah (SWT). Whoever wants companionship should hold on to Qur'an. Whoever seeks infinite treasure should fine solace in contentment. Whoever craves for better advice should listen to messages from death. And, Whosoever does abide by all these should await consequence in hell.'

May Allah count us among those who turn away from evil and find better counsel in goodness.

Amin thumma Amin. Ma'as salaamah.

IMAM DR. R. B. UTHMAN

- Nigeria