Terrorism, forced conversions anti-Islam– Scholar

Islam is fundamentally opposed to the ideology and violent campaign of insurgent groups, including Boko Haram, prominent Islamic scholar and former Commissioner in Lagos State, Dr. Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, has declared. He spoke at the annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Nasrullahi Fatih Society (NASFAT). The lecture, held at the NASFAT Islamic Centre in Asese, Ogun […]

Islam is fundamentally opposed to the ideology and violent campaign of insurgent groups, including Boko Haram, prominent Islamic scholar and former Commissioner in Lagos State, Dr. Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, has declared.

He spoke at the annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Nasrullahi Fatih Society (NASFAT).

The lecture, held at the NASFAT Islamic Centre in Asese, Ogun State, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, brought together scholars, clerics and public officials to reflect on faith, justice and national security.

Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Hajia Noimot Salako-Oyedele was in attendance while Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat was represented by Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, Special Adviser to the Governor on political education and civic engagement.

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Delivering his address titled, “Whoever saves a life, saves humanity,” Abdullateef stressed that Islam is a religion rooted in peace, justice and the sanctity of human life, and cannot be associated with terrorism, kidnapping or forced conversions.

“Islam is against Boko Haram in all ramifications,” he said, adding, “Our religion makes it mandatory to seek education. Abducting schoolchildren, forcing them into marriage or compelling religious conversion is not part of Islam.”

He condemned the activities of insurgents who kidnap young girls, impose hijab on abductees and force marriages, describing such acts as direct violations of Qur’anic teachings.

According to him, Islam forbids compulsion in religion and expressly prohibits forced marriage.

Citing the Qur’anic injunction that whoever kills a soul unjustly has killed all humanity, the scholar emphasised that preserving life remains one of the highest principles in Islam.

“If you save a life, it is as if you have saved the life of a nation. If you take a life, you have taken the life of humanity,” he said.

The former commissioner for Home Affairs further explained that Islam promotes knowledge, peaceful coexistence and social justice, urging Muslims to reject extremist interpretations that distort the faith.

He called on religious leaders to intensify public enlightenment efforts so that communities clearly understand that terrorism and banditry have no foundation in Islamic doctrine.

Beyond insurgency, the lecture addressed broader societal challenges, including corruption and the administration of justice.

The scholar criticised those who obstruct justice through bribery and political interference, warning that defending criminals amounts to enabling the destruction of society.

“We will continue to chase shadows if we bribe security operatives or shield offenders. Allah warns against being defenders of those who destroy society,” he said.

He urged governors to exercise their constitutional prerogative of mercy with a deep sense of accountability before God, particularly in cases involving violent crimes.

Public office holders, security agents and judicial officers were reminded that they would one day be called to account for their actions.

Also speaking, Prof. Lukmon Adedeji warned against promoting tribalism and religious divide, saying Almight God had created human beings as different tribes.

Speakers at the event also highlighted the responsibility of parents in shaping the moral foundation of their children, stressing that value erosion contributes to insecurity and social breakdown.