Sultan to Islamic clerics: Shun materialism, flamboyant lifestyle

Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Islamic clerics in the country to shun materialism and flamboyant lifestyles not consistent with the teachings of Islam.

Speaking yesterday in Katsina state, Abubakar said materialism and flamboyant lifestyle does not portray piety before the followership as clerics are supposed to lead by example. Represented by the Emir of Katsina, Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, he called on clerics to eschew acts that could compromise the faith, but tell the truth to all including those in leadership positions. Abubakar spoke during the opening ceremony of the 32nd National Koranic Recitation Competition, organised by the Centre for Islamic Studies, Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, and hosted by the state. He called on clerics to carry out their preaching responsibilities without fear or favour.

The Sultan, who is also President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, called on participants of the competition not to see it as a means for material gain, but an avenue to imbibe the teachings of the faith. Speaking, Governor Aminu Bello Masari said the state government was considering the possibility of reviewing Islamic education bureau law in order to reposition the operation of religious schools across the state.

However, the Registrar, Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof Ishaq Oloyede frowned at the wide gap between Muslims and teachings of Islam. Oloyede, represented by Prof Hafiz Oladosu, lamented that many Muslims were not practicing the teachings contained in the Koran. The competition, which commenced yesterday, is to last for ten days with important dignitaries expected to attend the occasion. A total of 29 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are expected to participate in the competition, with 250 male and female reciters to compete in six categories.