Islamic Scholars Call for Responsible Leadership at Ikuforiji’s Ramadan Lecture in Lagos
Islamic scholar, Abdulhakeem Olapade, has said that the country will become a better place if the conduct of the people is guided by the dictates and the will of Allah.
He also charged those in authority to be conscious and deliberate in ensuring that the masses enjoy good governance, which is rooted in transparency, fairness, accountability, and the rule of law.
Ustaz Abdulhakeem Olapade gave this charge during the 4th Ramadan Lecture/Iftar with Media Executives organised by the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Sabit Ikuforiji, held at his residence in GRA, Ikeja.
Speaking on the topic, “Islam and the Challenges of Good Governance in Nigeria,” the Islamic scholar noted that Allah enjoined those who have been selected to lead to positively impact the lives of the people by ensuring that their rights are protected.
He, however, explained that those who want to demand their rights must first perform their civic responsibilities to the country.
According to him, everyone will render an account of their stewardship before Allah in the hereafter. He added that Islam is a complete way of life that teaches how people must conduct themselves and relate with others in order to earn everlasting reward, which is paradise.
He also cleared the air on the misconception that Islam does not encourage the faithful to seek the good things of life, stressing that the wealthy who are conscious of their responsibilities stand a better chance of serving Allah better.
Ustaz Abdulhakeem Olapade concluded by saying that such wealth by Muslims must be acquired in a just and lawful manner.
The second lecturer, Ustaz Mutiu Orolu, who spoke on the quest for the 2027 general elections and the role of Muslims in nation-building, emphasised that Islam does not forbid the faithful from participating in politics.
He also cautioned against the attitude of some Nigerians who rain curses on leaders, adding that those who engage in such acts are neglecting the injunctions of Allah.
He explained that Allah enjoined believers to accept Him, the Prophet, and their leaders as part of their obedience in worship.
Ustaz Orolu insisted that despite its shortcomings, democracy remains the best system of governance in the country, which has experienced over 26 years of democratic rule in the Fourth Republic.
He likened the participation of Muslims in electioneering activities, including voting, to an act of worship, but warned against vote-buying, vote-selling, and other acts capable of undermining the electoral process.
Welcoming guests to the event, the former Lagos Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Sabit Ikuforiji, thanked Allah for granting the success of the event.
He promised to sustain the tradition and charged the media to continue playing their role as the watchdog of society in line with the ethics of the profession.
In her vote of thanks, the wife of the former Speaker, Mrs. Mayowa Ikuforiji, expressed gratitude for the turnout and prayed that Allah grants everyone long life to witness more Ramadan fasts.
Some of the dignitaries at the 4th Ramadan Lecture/Iftar with Media Executives included the former Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, Alhaji Bode Oyedele; a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mustaheen Abiola Tobun; former Lagos lawmaker, Hon. Yekini Kunle Ademoye; the CEO of Messages Inc. PR, Otunba Ademola Adedoyin; Chief Wale Mogaji; and Alhaji Oladeinde Tunwashe.
