Scholars, clerics and academics have called for an embrace of Sufism as a moral and spiritual tool to address insecurity and social decay, stressing that inner reformation of individuals is key to building a peaceful society.
They spoke at the maiden Sufi Conference of Al-Munirat Arabic and Islamic Academy, with theme: “Sufism: A Spiritual Blueprint for Peace-Building and Security in Nigeria.”
Convener, Dr Sulaiman Algamawi, said the theme was was to draw government attention to the need for non-military approaches to insecurity.
“Beyond conventional methods of fighting insecurity, there is another tool with the capacity to restore peace in Nigeria, which is Sufism or Tasawwuf. Through Sufi training and ethics, insecurity can be reduced,”he said
He said the event is the first of intellectual engagements at correcting misconceptions about Sufism and repositioning it as a force for moral transformation and national stability.
“This is the maiden edition, and our plan is to hold it annually to bring together intellectuals. We can call this a national conference … In the next two years, we intend to make it international,”Algamawi said
He explained that Sufism goes beyond prayers, chanting or Qur’anic recitation saying its true essence lies in ethical training and moral discipline drawn from the Qur’an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
“The ethics and implications of these spiritual practices are meant to shape the individual into someone who can make positive changes in society. When character is reformed, insecurity can be curbed, from personal behaviour, extending to the immediate environment and beyond,”he said.
Algamawi added that the academy organises Ramadan lectures, symposiums and counselling for students, particularly Arabic learners, to instil in them a sense of responsibility.
He appealed to individuals and organisations willing to support the initiative financially to partner the organisers.
Chair of the occasion, Dr. Saheed Timehin, a lecturer of Foreign Languages at Lagos State University, described Sufism as the inner dimension of Islamic principles.
“Sufism focuses on purification of the soul and ethical conduct. In reality, Sufi ethics are not different from standard Islamic ethics as taught by the Prophet. If properly practised, it transforms the soul, helping to re-orient society,”he said.
Timehin identified ignorance as the root of controversies surrounding Sufism, urging Sufi scholars to be more visible in the media and public space.
“When teachings remain confined to zawiyas, people misunderstand them, “Sufis must popularise their teachings. That is why I recommend that papers presented in Arabic should be translated into English so more people can benefit,” he said.
Dr Abubakar Salaty, a lecturer in Department of Arabic and Transnational Studies, University of Ilorin emphasised that genuine Sufism is firmly rooted in the Qur’an and the Sunnah.
“All Sufi scholars abide by the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah “The Qur’an describes Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as the best of character, and decay of character leads directly to decay in society,” he said.
Salaty urged Islamic scholars, especially those in the Sufi tradition, to ensure their teachings align with Islamic sources, stressing that moral reform must begin from the home.
“Charity begins at home. Parents must train their children before they step out into society,” he said. “If values are not taught at home, society will teach them in another way.”
He further highlighted patience, hard work and lawful means of livelihood as core Islamic values, warning against the pursuit of quick wealth.
“Nothing good comes easy,” Salaty said. “Islam teaches dignity of labour and entrepreneurship. Even the Prophet worked with his hands. Moral decay and the desire for quick money are among the roots of our societal problems.”
Dignitaries present were;Shaykh Bisiriyyu, Chairman league of Imams, Agboyi Ketu LCDA;Shaykh Ismail Balogun, Chairman league of Imams Ikosi Isheri LCDA;Shaykh Abdullah Mustafa, Chairman Tijaniyyah in Lagos State; Shaykh Abdulwahid Zakawi, Khalifah Khulafah, Ikeja Division;Shaykh Suleiman Alfulani, Mudir,Markaz Dari Salam Kwara state; Dr. Abubakar Abdullahi Bube Salary, Lecturer Department of Arabic and Transnational Studies, University of Ilorin; Dr. Saheed Olurotimi Timehin, a lecturer in the Department of Foreign Languages, Lagos State University; Khalifa Ismail Ibrahim Kajola, Chief Missioner League of imam and Alfas, Kosofe Local Governments.
