The Coalition of Northern Youth Imams cautioned their colleagues on Saturday against misconstruing the Sokoto State reform laws pertaining to the Sultanate Council, clarifying that rumors about deposing the Sultan are unfounded.
During a two-day workshop aimed at sensitizing Muslim clerics and Imams on verifying information about the Sultanate before drawing conclusions, the clerics emphasized the importance of truthfulness. Sheikh Abdulrahman Jibril-Funtua, chairman of the occasion, highlighted that Islam teaches against spreading rumors and making judgments without verification.
Jibril-Funtua urged the government to prioritize social welfare and the development of its people, acknowledging the current struggles with inflation, insecurity, and the devaluation of the Naira. He stressed that any new policy should be thoroughly examined for its potential benefits to the masses before being implemented and encouraged Imams to verify information before making judgments.
Regarding the Samoa deal, Jibril-Funtua stated, “If it is true that it supports same-sex marriage, then we do not agree to its implementation because it is against our faith and culture.” He also called on the Federal government to establish a commission to oversee traditional institutions and to end their subordination to state governors. He reiterated the council’s support for Sultan Abubakar Sa’ad’s authority as the Muslim leader in Nigeria, asserting, “I am positive he is beyond Sokoto State.”
Imam Rabiu Yahya also spoke, emphasizing the significant role of clerics in society as they guide people to do good, avoid evil, and educate them about their religion. He cautioned clerics against condemning leaders or government policies during sermons without full knowledge or certainty of the issues, reminding them that Islam advocates for verification and research before making conclusions.
