Former Grand Khadi, Kwara State Shari’ah Court of Appeal and Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Council of Ulamah, Justice Salihu Olohuntoyin Muhammad has urged Nigerians to stop condemning government in public
Justice Muhammad in chat with newsmen in Ilorin said political office is a trust (amanah) from God, and citizens have a duty to respect and guide those in authority through lawful means.
According to him, Islam prescribes prayers and constructive advice for leaders instead of protests.
He maintained that even when government fails to meet expectations, public protests and criticisms are not allowed by Islamic law.
He also appealed to government to establish a regulatory framework for religious preaching across faiths as the absence of control has allowed abuse of the pulpit.
The UN Peace Ambassador distanced Islam from terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes, describing them as signs of the end of time.
He charged Nigerians to begin addressing the menace from the family level by guiding their children early.
The former Grand Khadi advised Nigerians to approach government with dialogue when dissatisfied, rather than resorting to media attacks.
Justice Muhammed, who earned his UN Peace Ambassador title after a presentation at a Baptist Convention in the United States, recalled mediating in conflicts in Sudan, Gambia, London, Malaysia and the US.
He said his experiences reinforced his belief that constructive dialogue and mutual respect are the foundation of peace.
The retired Grand Khadi further called on the government to ban graduation ceremonies in pre-primary and primary schools as such are misplacement of values.
He argued that such celebrations burden parents financially and distract pupils from the true essence of early education.
The Kwara Council of Ulamah, which he serves as the Executive Secretary, was inaugurated in 2020 by the Emir of Ilorin to promote peaceful coexistence and resolve disputes across the state. The body also screens new Jumat mosques before approval.
