The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has issued a strong caution to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, warning him to be vigilant against mischief makers attempting to undermine Islam and create divisions within the Muslim community.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the NSCIA expressed concern over what it described as a deliberate effort by certain individuals and groups to misrepresent Islam and destabilize the unity of Nigerian Muslims. The council, which serves as the highest Islamic body in the country, urged the Sultan, who is also its President-General, to be wary of those spreading misinformation and trying to manipulate religious sentiments for their own interests.
According to the NSCIA, these mischief makers aim to create confusion among Muslims by distorting Islamic teachings and promoting discord within the Ummah. The statement emphasized that Islam stands for peace, unity, and justice, and any attempt to divide the Muslim community should be strongly resisted.
“The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs is deeply concerned about the rising attempts to create unnecessary tension within the Muslim community. Certain individuals and groups have been working tirelessly to misrepresent Islamic values and cause disharmony among the faithful. We call on His Eminence, the Sultan, to remain vigilant and ensure that these elements do not succeed in their mission,” the statement read.
The council also called on Muslim leaders, scholars, and organizations across the country to remain steadfast in upholding the true teachings of Islam and counter any misinformation being spread by those with ulterior motives. It emphasized the need for unity, urging all Muslims to stand together in defending their faith from external and internal threats.
Furthermore, the NSCIA reassured the Muslim community that it remains committed to protecting the interests of Islam and ensuring that the religion continues to be a force for peace and harmony in Nigeria. It urged Muslims to focus on promoting understanding and coexistence while rejecting any form of incitement or propaganda designed to create conflict.
The warning from the NSCIA comes at a time of increasing religious tensions in some parts of the country, with reports of attempts to manipulate religious issues for political and personal gains. The council urged the authorities to be proactive in addressing such challenges and ensuring that religious harmony is maintained.
In conclusion, the NSCIA called on all Muslims to remain united, practice patience, and avoid falling victim to divisive narratives. It reiterated that the Sultan of Sokoto remains a central figure in the leadership of Islam in Nigeria and should be supported in his efforts to uphold the integrity of the faith.
As the highest Islamic authority in Nigeria, the NSCIA continues to play a crucial role in guiding the Muslim community and ensuring that Islam is represented in its true form, free from distortion and mischief.
