* Urges verification of information before posting online
NAHCON board member representing the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, has cautioned Nigerian pilgrims against the misuse of social media and the spread of unverified information during the ongoing Hajj operations.
He warned that such practices could trigger unnecessary panic, distort realities on ground, and negatively affect Nigeria’s image as well as the dignity of Muslims.
Speaking with Muslim News, Prof. Adedimeji emphasised the urgent need for digital responsibility, proper verification of information, and disciplined communication among pilgrims during the Hajj exercise.
According to him, many social media users lack the digital literacy required to properly verify sensitive information before dissemination.
“One of the negative dimensions of social media is that people sensationalise issues without proper verification,” he said.
“If pilgrims encounter any challenge, they should approach NAHCON officials or officials of the pilgrims welfare boards for clarification instead of rushing to social media.”
He noted that the current information age has made it easy for content to spread rapidly, often without context, adding that this can distort realities on ground and escalate situations unnecessarily.
“We are living in a world of information explosion. Words, when carelessly used, have explosive and destructive power,” he said, adding, “This is evident in the state of the society where negativity is often amplified and promoted, ultimately normalised and fossilised.”
Prof. Adedimeji stressed that Islam places strong emphasis on verification and responsible communication, adding that Muslims are expected to ensure accuracy and benefit before sharing any information.
“The attitude of a Muslim to information is constructive and critical. Is it true? Is it fair? Is it verified? Is it beneficial for the general good?” he asked.
He referenced a saying of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), noting: “It is enough of a lie for a man to narrate everything he hears,” urging pilgrims to avoid forwarding or amplifying unverified reports.
Prof. Adedimeji, who is also the Vice Chancellor of the African School of Economics (ASE), further encouraged pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia to focus on the spiritual essence of Hajj and avoid distractions that could undermine the rewards of the pilgrimage.
“We are going for one of the pillars of Islam, and it is important that we do not undermine our reward through irresponsible use of social media,” he said. “I want pilgrims to be sensitive, responsible, and careful in their use of social media so that we do not portray our country, Islam, or Muslims negatively.”
He added that issues such as disputes, unnecessary arguments, and online altercations during Hajj could diminish the spiritual benefits of the exercise.
He also cited Islamic teachings on the reward of an accepted Hajj, noting that a Hajj performed sincerely without sinful conduct is rewarded with Paradise, and that pilgrims return purified of sins like a newborn child.
The NAHCON board member further emphasised the importance of digital literacy among pilgrims, describing it as essential in today’s communication environment.
“Digital literacy and social media literacy are very important. It is not everything one hears or sees that should be shared immediately,” he said.
Prof. Adedimeji prayed for a successful Hajj exercise and asked for divine guidance for pilgrims and officials involved in the ongoing operations in Saudi Arabia.
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