Scholar urges clerics to avoid spreading divisive ideologies

An Islamic scholar, Dr Atiku Balarabe-Zawiyya, has urged Muslim clerics to always promote religious tolerance and refrain from spreading divisive ideologies that bred religious misunderstandings.

Balarabe-Zawiyya made the call Sunday in Sokoto at the annual lecture and Maulud to commemorate the life of renowned scholar, Sheikh Ibrahim Nyas of Senegal.

The event was organised by Shabbabul Faidha Islamic Movement, adherents of the Dariqa Tijjaniyya, Sokoto state branch.

He underscored the importance of abiding by Allah’s divine injunctions, brotherliness and peaceful coexistence among the people.

He said that Allah created all beings human and non-human for a purpose.

He congratulated Governor Aminu Tambuwal on his re-election and called on leaders to live up to the expectations of Nigerians and improve their living standards.

Similarly, he enjoined the people to respect their leaders and pray for God to guide them in the task of providing the right leadership for the country.

Balarabe-Zawiyya reviewed the contribution of late Sheikh Nyas to Islam and modern learning cycles noting that he authored over 75 books and presented valuable lectures at prestigious institutions across the world.

He enjoined present scholars and leaders to follow his footsteps as was copied by popular scholars in Nigeria during 1970s and 80s which prepared them to become distinct and exceptional in all the branches of knowledge.

“Respectable scholars prepare books from their good understanding of the Qur’an and Prophetic traditions to ensure understandings among followers of Prophet Muhammad,’’ he said.

Balarabe-Zawiyya also enjoined Muslims to give priority to intellectual development to be well equipped in the propagation of Islam.

In his presentation, Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, a lecturer at Usmanu Danfodio University Sokoto (UDUS), called on scholars and religious bodies to promote issues toward increased peace and stability in Nigeria.

He also urged them to always pray for the country and preach tolerance for other religions.

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