JNI seeks restoration of peace in Nigeria

THE Jama’atul Nasirul Islam (JNI) under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called for the restoration of peace and security in the country.

To this end, it called on every fasting Muslim in the holy month of Ramadan to embark on prayers against the worsening cases of armed banditry, kidnapping and poverty in the country.

The JNI, in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Dr Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, also called on governments at all levels to initiate people-friendly policies and programmes, saying “the outcry is loud and clear.”

The organisation said: “Following the successful commencement of Ramadan fasting, JNI under the leadership of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, felicitates with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah, as it was very pleasing that Allah (SWT) made the commencement to be in harmony.

“JNI, as usual, uses this medium to call on the Nigerian Muslims to redouble their respective efforts in being more God-conscious through punctual observance of the five daily and taraweeh prayers congregationally, frequent recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, ardent supplications, as well as continued remembrance of Allah (SWT).

“Certainly, Ramadan is a month of servitude and dedication to Allah, the Most High, self-restraint and patience, thus we must collectively strive to earn Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness in this blessed month.

“Slacking in performing good deeds is the enemy of time. Therefore, we must be more dedicated to the worship of Allah now and beyond, as there is no better time than the month of Ramadan.

“Over time, JNI has been calling on Muslims to fervently pray for the restoration of security, peace, stability, progress and development in Nigeria. We once again reiterate same call, as the situation seems to be deteriorating with armed banditry, kidnappings, theft and abject poverty on the increase.

“Therefore, governments at all levels as well as individuals who have the wherewithal are called upon to extend benevolent gestures such as alms giving and support to the indigents in severe need, as well as millions of IDPs spread across the country.

“This is the most appropriate time to show compassion and, of course, the needy would want to see such assistance now. Moreover, it is more rewarding.”

“Similarly, JNI uses this medium to remind leaders at all levels that success shall only come their respective ways when they roll out friendly policies to the citizenry. At the moment, the outcry is loud and clear. Therefore, this period should be a sober reflection time for us all and make the necessary amends in order to seek Allah’s pleasure.

“Ramadan, being the month of tafseer (exegesis) of the Glorious Qur’an, respected Mufasseerun (scholars engaged in the exegesis of the Glorious Qur’an) are urged to put the citizenry on the pedestal of goodness and be reminded of the consequences of vices.

“In addition, the Mufasseerun are implored to conduct their respective tafseer sessions in line with the Qur’an and Sunnah of the Noble Prophet, using courteous language and kind words. They should as well shun bad preaching during the tafseer sessions.

“By and large, JNI wishes all Muslim faithful an accepted and rewarding Ramadan.”