Muslims have been advised to be agents of positive change and good ambassadors of Islam.
The advice was given by speakers at the annual Ramadan lecture organised by a frontline politician and community leader, Mr Azeem Owe in Itire-Ikate, Lagos.
Speaking on the theme, Islam and Politics, guest lecturer at the event, Imam Abdul-Ganee Suleiman, said politics is an integral part of Islam reason it is mandatory for all true believers to participate in the governance of his society.
He said: “The Quran touches on every aspect of human lives including politics. It is a code of life that guide and teaches every Muslim how to live a better life.
“Talk about politics, a true Muslim is expected to uphold justice and tolerance which are the ingredients required to promote public interest and peaceful society”.
Suleiman lamented that justice and tolerance are missing in our politicians. Many of them are intolerant and unjust in their handling of the affairs of the country which is why we are having challenges of insecurity, economic and youth restiveness and armed banditry.
Speaking in similar vein, the organiser of the event, Owe said the guide to a healthy political transition and a peaceful society lie in upholding the teachings of Islam.
According to him, the glorious Quran has all the answers to the country’s challenges, but unfortunately the political class is heedless.
He said: “It is disturbing that we witness an increasing rate of violence and thuggery when the country is approaching election year. We have to let them know that Islam forbids hypocrisy and manipulation of election results. It forbids rigging an election to favour an unpopular candidate. The country is approaching election year and as Muslims, it is compulsory for us to know our duties and roles before, during and after the election.
“We cannot sit down and fold our arms and expect miracle to happen. If we few unconcerned about the political process then we have no right to complain about the kind of leadership that such election brings forth.”