An Ilorin, Kwara State-born Muslim scholar, Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu says the trend of toxic arguments within the rank and file of the Nigerian Muslims will advertently take away its power and might.
Dr. Sholagberu made the statement in his inaugural khutbah as an Imam of the National Mosque Abuja, on Friday, February 7, 2025.
Muslim News had reported the appointment of new Imams for the National Mosque, with Dr. Sholagberu representing North Central as a visiting Imam.
Presenting his khutbah, Imam Sholagberu drew attention to the emerging trend of toxic arguments and division among Muslim scholars in the da’wah space.
The Imam noted that there is a clear difference between toxic argument (khilaaf) and intellectual disagreement (ikhtilaaf), stating that the former breeds division while the latter fosters unity and mercy within the Ummah.
Calling for unity and cooperation among Muslims, the scholar explained that intellectual disagreements have always featured in the history of the Muslim community, but did not necessarily lead to toxicity and division.
According to the Imam, It is the responsibility of Muslim scholars of each generation to ensure that difference of opinions does not divide the Ummah and destroy the bond of unity and brotherhood that Muslims share.
Dr. Sholagberu attributed the incidence of toxic arguments between Muslim scholars to ignorance and Shaytan’s deception.
“Every group only wishes to establish their own view above others. They are not ready to take any correct element in the view of others, regardless of whoever presents it,” he said.
He tasked Muslim scholars to initiate a reconciliation project, while also stressing that they must be humble enough to admit the merit in the claims of others.
The historic khutbah was attended by prominent personalities, including the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III; former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki; members of the National Assembly; past and present government officials; and Islamic scholars.
Imam Sholagberu reminded Muslims of the significance of the month of Sha’ban, asking them to intensify preparations for the holy month of Ramadan, which is just some weeks away.
He prayed for rapid socioeconomic development in Nigeria, and divine assistance and guidance for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sultan of Sokoto, and other leaders across various strata of the country.
Sponsored
