Chairman of the National Assembly Mosque Zone E, Apo Legislators’ Quarters, Gudu District Abuja, Saidu Muhammed Dansadau, has given reasons why the Mosqu’s chief Imam, Sheikh Nuru Khalid was sacked, saying that his teachings of political apathy are un-Islamic.
The Islamic cleric was initially suspended for his anti-government sermon during the Jum’at service on Friday, criticizing the government for its inadequacy in dealing with rising insecurity in the country.
The committee chairman said that the Chief Imam did not show “remorse” after he was suspended immediately after the Jum’at prayer, stressing that his reaction did not show any form of regret following his sermon.
The content of the letter suspending Sheik Khalid reads: “We regret to inform you that from today the 4th day of April 2023 you have been disengaged from the services of the above-mentioned mosque.
“This action is occasioned by the non-remorseful attitude you exhibited following your suspension on 2nd April this year.
“Akamakallah, you know better than me by the teaching of Islam, the essence of administering punishment is to correct behaviour. Unfortunately, your media reaction to the suspension creates the impression that you are not remorseful, NOT to talk of humbly reflecting on the consequences of your utterances.
“Leadership demands a great sense of responsibility. If our words do more harm than good to larger interest of the country or the public. We have a responsibility to maximum restraint for the good of public. It is obvious however, that you don’t seem keen to modify your Friday sermon to be reflective of the volatility of security situation in the country.
“You are an influencer; your words carry a lot of weights, you words can make or mar our situation. Your words can be taken advantage of by mischief makers, those responsible for these security challenges or enemies of the country for their devilish agendas.
“As leaders of the mosque we have a sacred responsibility to avoid utterances that are capable of making a bad situation worse. This is our fear and concern.”
Reacting to his suspension, Khalid said that only God could give or take power from anyone.
