What Hamzat revealed about Islam will leave you thinking twice

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has rubbished claims that Islam is a religion of violence or fight, urging Muslims to uphold the values of peace and harmony in fostering national unity and understanding.

Speaking at the 16th Late Alhaji Kafaru Oluwole Tinubu Annual Memorial Ramadan Lecture, held at the Blue Roof, LTV, Ikeja, Hamzat emphasised the necessity of peaceful coexistence, especially in light of Nigeria’s current socio-political climate.

He reiterated that Islam is a faith built on peace, compassion, and tolerance, and that it is crucial for Muslims to embody these principles in their daily lives.

“We all know that Islam is a religion that promotes peace. Beyond standing against any form of injustice that hinders our devotion to Allah, we are called to actively seek peace—within our homes, communities, and society at large,” Hamzat stated.

Dismissing misconceptions that wrongly associate Islam with violence, the Deputy Governor stressed that clerics must take a firm stance against acts of extremism and reaffirm that Islam is rooted in peace.

“Some people ignorantly link acts of violence to Islam. Let us be clear—Islam is a religion of peace, tolerance, and care. We must continue to debunk such falsehoods and promote the true essence of our faith,” he added.

Hamzat also expressed concern over the growing moral decline in society, urging Muslims to take a proactive role in addressing the issue.

Commending the Kafaru Oluwole Tinubu family, Radio Lagos, Lagos State Television (LTV), and the Kafaru Oluwole Tinubu Foundation for their dedication to propagating Islam, he underscored the importance of such lectures in strengthening the faith and fostering a better society.

Delivering a lecture on “Tax Reforms, Social Responsibilities, and the Importance of Zakat,” Imam AbdulFatai AbdulMojeed of the Islamic Research Training Institute (IRTI) differentiated between taxation and Zakat, clarifying that while Zakat is a fundamental pillar of Islam, taxation is a civic duty.

“Zakat must be given truthfully and justly as an act of worship, while taxes are contributions to the government for the collective development of society,” he explained, adding that the President’s tax reforms will support Nigeria’s economic growth.

Dr. Munirudeen Salaudeen Ariyyadiy of Lagos State University of Education, Ijanikin, spoke on “Managing Public Trust: Changing Values in Our Socio-Economic Reality and Global Trends.” He highlighted the importance of integrity in public financial management.

According to him, the effective handling of public funds requires three key considerations: the integrity of those appointing leaders, the competence of those in office, and the ethical management of national resources.