Hijrah: Islamic Clerics Advocate Respect For Human Dignity

As Muslims all over the world commence the Islamic New Year (Muharram, 1448 A.H.), the Ogun State chapter of Progressive Muslim Clerics (PMC) yesterday, called on adherents of the Islamic faith across the country to commit their lives towards upholding justice, accountability, respect for human dignity, among other virtues that are urgently needed for global peace in the true principles of Hijrah mission.

In particular reference to peaceful coexistence, unity, cooperation, and patience in adversity, PMC said Nigerian Muslims should reflect on the lessons of the Hijrah mission and examine their relevance to the socio-political realities of the day, noting that these principles remain relevant “as individuals and societies confront numerous challenges”.

Addressing a world press conference on Tuesday in Abeokuta, the state capital, PMC President, Alhaji Abdul Wasiu Akinyemi, said the Hijrah principles are still relevant today. As such, adherents of the Islamic faith need to reflect on the lessons and contribute towards building a “more peaceful, equitable and more prosperous” Nigerian society.

Noting that Hijrah was “a strategic spiritual and socio-political movement that laid the foundation for a just and prosperous society, Akinyemi emphatically called on adherents of the Islamic faith to ensure that every community in Nigeria is governed by justice, accountability and respect for human dignity, stressing that “no society thrives where injustice is normalised”.

“As citizens and leaders, we must advocate for transparency in governance, accountability in public office, protection of human rights, fair distribution of resources, rule of law and social justice. No society can thrive where injustice is normalised”.

“In our increasingly diverse societies, Muslims should intentionally promote interfaith dialogue, peaceful coexistence, respect for cultural differences, national unity and social harmony. Division weakens communities, while unity strengthens them”.

The PMC President also advocated for greater investment in quality education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and the moral and spiritual development of Nigerian youths, given the significance of their population and enormous potential, as evidenced by the Hijrah mission.