By THEANALYSTMEDIA
HRM, SA’IDU AKAWU SALIHU,The Ohimegye Igu of Igu Kingdom
Wealthy Muslims in the state have been called upon to share their wealth with the lees privileged and needy, towards the economic growth of the Ummah
The called was made by Khadi Bello Muhammad Bello, in Lokoja on Saturday, in a lecture he presented as part of the celebration marking the Hijrah.
Bello explained that Islam encourages donating a portion of one’s wealth to those in need, stressing that this is one of the fundamental pillars of the deen.
According to him, “Charity serves as a way to bring justice balance and kindness to every society and community. It is our hope and prayer that Muslim community fulfill their charitable duty correctly and does their part to eliminating poverty in communities everywhere.
Authorities must ensure a minimum standard of living for all citizens and to create opportunities for economic advancement with the aim of having a just and equitable society.
Wealthier individuals must support their impoverished relatives and to contribute to the wellbeing of the community. Ensuring they have access to basic necessities and opportunities. In the matter of alms giving and charity preference must be given to one’s closest relations provided they are poor and stand in need of help.
He maintained that this singular act alleviates poverty, and further promote social justice, and foster a harmonious society.
Quoting Prophetic Hadith “To give something to a poor man brings one reward, while giving the same to a needy relation brings two; one for charity and the other for respecting the family ties”.
Describing poverty from the Islamic perspective, Hon. Bello said it’s not only the lack of material wealth, but the inability to meet essential needs, noting that poverty in Nigeria is faced multifaceted issues which have eroded the human dignity of the citizens.
The Islamic cleric commended the present administration under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for prioritizing the welfare of workers in the state, citing the prompt payment of salary and Leave Bonus.
Highlighting some of the causes of poverty and its negative effects on the society, Hon. Bello submitted that conscious measures must be put in place to assuage and mitigate the scourge.
Chairman of the occasion and Ohi of Okene, HRH. Alhaji Isah Okatahi in his opening address urged Muslims to endeavour to reflect on the significance of the Hijrah as it engenders a strong bond of brotherhood amongst Muslims worldwide.
He enjoined Muslims to demonstrate good morals, practice compassion, promote peaceful coexistence and good neighborliness, urging them to let their behavior reflect the positive values of their faith.
In his welcome address, the Chairman, Kogi State Council of Ulamau said the event was another reminder that the Hijrah is a continuous positive movement in all aspects of human.
“We must continuously shun evil acts, for good acts; we should avoid bad behavior and embrace good behavior; we should avoid greed, selfishness, and indecency in our utterances, dressings and behavior, and embrace conducts which are capable of promoting equality of all within the society; respect and assistance to the poor, sick, aged, etc”.
“Muslims must ensure proper and even distribution of wealth in the society. As Muslims, we should migrate from lawlessness to law-abiding citizens at all times and in all places.”
He commended the efforts of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his continuous support to all religious organizations in the state, and also ensuring that the State is safe and secured.
Eminent personalities from across the state including the Ohimege Igu Koton-karfe, Alhaji Saidu Akawu Salihu; Commissioners of Justice, Hon. Muizzudeen Yunus Abdullah SAN; Water Resources, Engr. Farouk MD Yahaya; Solid Minerals, Engr. Bashir Gegu, State Grand Khadi, Abdulkareem Aruwa graced the occasion.
Others includes; the Chief Imam of Okene, Sheikh Abere, Chief Imam of Aiyegunle-Gbedde, Islamic scholars and leaders of Islamic organizations in the state.
Highpoints of the event includes the launching of the 1447 Hijrah calendar and Match-past parade by pupils of various Islamic schools in Lokoja.
