The Anwar-ul-Islam Movement of Nigeria has charged the newly appointed National Chief Imam, Sheikh Muslihudeen Adebola Afisi, to work towards correcting the image of Muslims through the Quran and Sunnah, citing some so-called imams who have discredited Islam through their actions.
This charge was given by the President of the Movement, Alhaji Mubashir Ojelade, during the 2023 Ramadan lecture and presentation of the new Imam held at the Anwar-ul-Islam Model College, Oniwaya, Agege, Lagos, Sunday.
Alhaji Ojelade congratulated the members on the successful appointment of the new Imam, noting that the selection process was “peaceful and rancour-free” and that the president did not have a favored candidate.
He urged Sheikh Afisi to live up to expectations and join other notable Imams in restoring the dignity and culture of Islam.
“The society is sick, and Islam needs to be purged of all kinds of bad habits. You are now in the fold of notable Imams, and we urge you to join others to restore the dignity and culture of Islam for Muslims in line with the Quran and Sunnah,” Ojelade said.
Delivering his inaugural lecture on the topic: “Sharia for Muslims in Southwestern Nigeria: Fundamentals, Misconceptions, and Benefits,” Sheikh Afisi dismissed misconceptions about Shariah, shedding light on the divine law and exposing the benefits therein.
Read Also; A woman’s world?
He provided clarity on the principles and practices of Sharia, highlighting its importance in guiding the lives of Muslims.
Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Muhammad Oyinlomo Danmole, commended Sheikh Afisi for his scholarly treatment of the topic. Alhaji Danmole urged Muslims to change their strategies in seeking Sharia courts in the southwest.
He advocated a more systematic approach through the presentation of a public bill.
“A better approach would be the presentation of a public bill where issues of Islamic private laws, such as Islamic marriage recognition and inheritance adjudication, can be processed through the act of parliament. That way, we will achieve our cause without much ado,” Danmole said.
Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, also commended Sheikh Afisi for his scholarly presentation, noting that it would be useful in compiling reports and opinions of leaders on the issue.
