Ibadan: The Imam of the University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Uthman Ibrahim, has tasked Muslims with kindness and goodness to humanity, irrespective of religion. Ibrahim, of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, UI, gave the charge at a seminar organised by The Rightly Guided Foundation (TRGF) in Ibadan on Saturday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the seminar, entitled ‘Reawakening the Decaying Spirit of Charity and Humanity’, was organised in collaboration with The Merciful Foundation and Mumineen Relief, both based in the United States. The Imam emphasized that Islam is not solely about worship but is a combination of worship, kindness, compassion for humanity, and good deeds. He urged all Muslims to prioritize caring for fellow human beings and other creatures, including animals, by showing kindness and goodness to all.
Ibrahim further called on affluent Muslims to assist the less privileged by paying Zakat to alleviate poverty among Muslims and society at large. He noted that the payment of Zakat and the observance of other Islamic obligations could significantly impact society.
In his remarks, the seminar’s Chairman, Dr. Ademola Munir, highlighted that Islam provides guidance on tackling poverty through Zakat distribution to needy Muslims. Munir pointed out that despite Zakat being compulsory for wealthy Muslims, its neglect has contributed to increasing poverty in Nigeria and globally. He commended the foundation for organizing the seminar to revive the spirit of assistance and kindness among Muslims, regardless of religious differences.
Earlier, TRGF’s Chief Operating Officer, Malam Ibrahim Bello, explained that the seminar aimed to remind Muslims of their responsibilities concerning Zakat payment, charity, and good deeds. Bello outlined the foundation’s activities, which include the collection and distribution of Zakat, charity, foodstuffs, and cash to needy Muslims. Additionally, the foundation supports the payment of JAMB and WAEC fees and provides Ramadan feeding, among other initiatives. He called on wealthy Muslims to contribute their Zakat to the foundation for distribution to those in need in society.