Parents warned against unrestricted exposure of children to mobile phones

PARENTS have been urged to monitor their children’s social media activities to protect them from its potential negative effects. 

The plea was made by the Chief Imam of Sarumi Alawo Central Mosque, Imam Abdul Jaleel Abdur Rafiu, during a lecture at the third certification ceremony and 10th anniversary of Hifzul Qur’an Academy, Isefun, Ayobo, Lagos State, held last weekend.

While acknowledging the positive aspects of mobile phones—such as better access to knowledge, ease of communication, and opportunities for self-education—the Imam emphasised that the harmful effects of unrestricted mobile phone use among young people far outweigh their benefits.

He highlighted several disadvantages, including exposure to misleading doctrines, wasted time, and access to pornography and sexually explicit materials.

He advised parents to limit their children’s exposure to mobile phones, stating that there is no need for primary and secondary school students to have mobile phones. In situations where it is necessary for children to have phones, he recommended the use of apps and devices that restrict access to harmful websites.

The Imam also urged the seven students who have memorised 10 Juz of the Qur’an to view the ceremony not as the end of their studies but as a milestone, stressing the importance of constant recitation to retain what they have learned.

The chairman and proprietor of the academy, Alhaji Muneerudeen Abiodun Mustapha Badmus, outlined several challenges facing the centre, including poor funding, parents’ general reluctance to pay school fees, inadequate monitoring of students after school, unnecessary requests for student absences, and a limited number of Hafiz to teach the Qur’an.

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He also lamented the negative attitude of some parents who prioritise Western education over Islamic education.

The proprietor appealed for financial support from well-meaning Muslims to construct a permanent centre for the institute, with an estimated cost of N20 million.

The graduating students were Hajiya Anaat Kayode, Hajiya Mardiyyah Irinoye, Hajiya Muhsinah Adebayo, Hajiya Halimah Moshood, Brother Sulaiman Adebisi, Brother Al Amin Shomoye, and Hussain Taiwo.