Muslims urged to reject extremist interpretations of Islam
An Islamic scholar and former Lagos State commissioner, Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, has urged Muslims to firmly reject extremist interpretations that distort Islamic teachings and fuel violence. He made the call at the annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Nasrullahi Fatih Society (NASFAT) at its Islamic Centre in Asese, Ogun State. The event drew scholars, clerics and […]
An Islamic scholar and former Lagos State commissioner, Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, has urged Muslims to firmly reject extremist interpretations that distort Islamic teachings and fuel violence.
He made the call at the annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Nasrullahi Fatih Society (NASFAT) at its Islamic Centre in Asese, Ogun State.
The event drew scholars, clerics and government officials, including Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, while Lagos Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat was represented.
Speaking on the theme, “Whoever saves a life, saves humanity,” Abdullateef stressed that Islam is rooted in peace, justice and the sanctity of human life.
He declared that violent groups such as Boko Haram misrepresent the faith.
“Islam is against Boko Haram in all ramifications,” he said, condemning kidnapping, forced marriage and compelled religious conversion as clear violations of Qur’anic teachings.
He emphasised that Islam forbids compulsion in religion and upholds the protection of life as a supreme value.
The cleric called on religious leaders to intensify enlightenment campaigns to counter radical narratives and educate communities on Islam’s true message of knowledge, coexistence and social justice.
He also warned against corruption and obstruction of justice, saying shielding criminals undermines society and contradicts divine injunctions. Public office holders, he added, must act with accountability before God.
Other speakers urged unity across ethnic and religious lines and stressed the role of parents in instilling moral values to curb insecurity and social decay.