News
Ex-Kwara jurist to Nigerians: Pray for leaders, stop public condemnation
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
Former Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shari’a Court of Appeal and Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Council of Ulamah, Justice Saliu Olohuntoyin Muhammad, has
urged Nigerians to stop public condemnation of government, insisting that Islam only prescribes prayers and constructive advice for leaders rather than protests and abuses.
Speaking in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, the retired jurist said political office is a trust (amanah) from God, and citizens have a duty to respect and guide those in authority through lawful means.
“Government offices are a trust from Allah and the people. Leaders must discharge them with sincerity. But as followers, our role is to pray for government and guide them with advice. Condemnation and abuse are not the way of Islam,” he stressed.
He maintained that even when government fails to meet their expectations, public protests and criticisms are not sanctioned by Islamic law. “Peaceful protest, whatever name you call it, is not recognised in Islam. You pray for guidance for those in power,” he added.
Justice Muhammed, however, appealed to the government to establish a regulatory framework for religious preaching across faiths, saying the absence of control has allowed abuse of the pulpit.
“The moment you can say ‘Allahu Akbar’, people call you malam. That is wrong. There must be law and regulation for both Christian and Muslim preachers. It should be a national policy,” he declared.
The jurist, who is a UN Peace Ambassador, distanced Islam from terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes, describing them as signs of the end of time. He, therefore, urged Nigerians to begin addressing the menace from the family level by guiding their children early.
The former Grand Khadi advised Nigerians to always approach the government using dialogue whenever they are not dissatisfied, rather than resorting to media attacks.
“If you see areas the government is not doing well, book an appointment with the relevant officials and present your advice. That is the Islamic way,” he said.
Justice Muhammed, who earned his UN Peace Ambassador title after a presentation at a Baptist Convention in the United States, recalled mediating in conflicts in Sudan, Gambia, London, Malaysia and the US, adding that his experiences reinforced his belief that constructive dialogue and mutual respect are the foundation of peace.
The retired Grand Khadi further called on the government to ban graduation ceremonies in pre-primary and primary schools, describing them as a misplacement of values.
He argued that such celebrations burden parents financially and distract pupils from the true essence of early education.
“Graduation in nursery and primary schools should be banned. It is unnecessary, a waste of money, and it encourages competition that is not healthy at that level,” he said.
Justice Muhammad maintained that children should be taught humility, discipline, and knowledge at that stage rather than being exposed to what he described as “miniature convocation parades.”
The Kwara Council of Ulamah, which he serves as the Executive Secretary, was inaugurated in 2020 by the Emir of Ilorin to promote peaceful coexistence and resolve disputes across the State. The body also screens new Jumat mosques before approval.
End
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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