Shun Protest, Ondo Islamic Affairs Advises
The Ondo State Council for Islamic Affairs has called on the people of Ondo State to exercise restraint and shun the #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest organized by faceless and unknown elements who do not have the nation’s best interests at heart. In a statement issued by Alhaji Waidi Ademola Fadola, Chairman of the Ondo State Council for Islamic Affairs, it was stated that these faceless and unknown individuals aim to bring insurrection and anarchy to the land.
According to the statement, the Ondo State Council for Islamic Affairs believes that all genuine avenues for engaging with the government have not been exhausted by these individuals. Instead, they seek to use unconventional means to overthrow a legitimate government and establish themselves. Progressive residents of Ondo State should not join this movement.
While acknowledging the hardships being faced, the council advised the youth to avoid any form of protest, as two wrongs do not make a right. “We must not join these faceless individuals in creating harm in our nation. Speaking up for justice is a fundamental principle of Islam.” It cited the scripture quoting the Prophet of Islam (may peace and blessings be upon him), who said, “When you see evil, change it with your hand; if you cannot, then with your speech; if you cannot, then with your heart, and this is the weakest of faith.”
“Based on this narrative, the best we can do to aid the government in addressing policies that have caused great hardship to citizens is to engage the government constructively on how to alleviate the suffering Nigerians are experiencing.”
The statement further emphasized that the planned protest would bring more havoc and distress to Nigerians. It is better to endure the present situation than to cause further hardship and destruction to the people we claim to want to help.
The statement also reminded that the last protest under the guise of #EndSARS resulted in the destruction of lives and property. Islam places a high premium on human life and property, and we must not allow any gathering that will lead to destruction under any pretext.
“The organizers of this #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest do not have good intentions but seek violence, anarchy, and destruction. We must not join them in the destruction of our common heritage.”
“Cases like Sudan, Libya, and recently Kenya are examples of prosperous nations that became wrecked due to insurrection caused by senseless and wicked protests. These countries were peaceful and a pride of Africa until mobs took over and destroyed everything. The value of peace is not fully appreciated until it is disturbed or lost.”
The statement urged Nigerians to engage with the government constructively and avoid protests that are likely to lead to destruction and insurrection. “We should also exercise patience and restraint and pray to Almighty Allah for perfect guidance for our leaders. May Allah bless our country, guide our leaders, and protect us from destruction.”
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