…cleric warns against rivalry, urges unity and discipline in mosque administration
In a passionate appeal delivered during a recent Islamic gathering, renowned cleric and Chief Imam of Nawair-udeen Central Mosque, Somolu/Bariga Branch, Sheikh Abiola Bashir Ahmad, has called on Islamic leaders to strengthen unity and work collectively for the progress of the Ummah.
The respected scholar emphasised that only through harmony, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose can the Muslim community overcome internal challenges and uphold the values of Islam.
The Founder of Aenur Ridhoh Islamic Global family made the remarks while addressing worshippers during a recent Jumat service, where he cautioned against rivalry, ego-driven leadership, and indiscipline among Islamic scholars and congregants.
Sheikh Abiola lamented that many of the challenges confronting Muslim communities today stem from unhealthy competition and personal interests within the Islamic community.
According to him, “There is no righteous leadership to right the wrong. When those saddled with responsibility fail to uphold sincerity and justice, the entire Ummah suffers.”
He warned Muslim faithful to shun any form of rivalry, noting that such behaviour destroys unity and derails the true purpose of worship. The cleric observed that some individuals begin their religious journey with sincerity but lose focus along the way due to pride, conflict, and disregard for Islamic ethics.
“There are people who do good deeds and are already close to earning the pleasure of Allah, but suddenly they change and lose the opportunity of attaining Aljanah”. He said, stressing the need for consistent righteousness.
Sheikh Abiola further condemned the manner in which some clerics respond disrespectfully to congregants, saying that reverence and humility are essential when a cleric is on the Minbar for a khutbah. “Allah loves those who work together and those who work solely for His sake.” He noted.
He reminded the congregation that unity is the backbone of a functional Islamic community. “Work together as one. Do not disgrace yourselves publicly. Islam is like a house; every brick must support the other for the structure to stand strong.” He added.
He urged Muslims to “change for a better community” and avoid habits that weaken the faith or create disrepute.
In his sermon filled with parables and figurative expressions, Sheikh Abiola cautioned against arrogance among Islamic leaders. Using idioms such as “Agbada t’o lè gę”, he criticised those who overstep their bounds, claiming positions or authority they do not deserve. He mocked the attitude of some self-appointed leaders who boast, saying, “I am the Mudir, I am the world Shehu,” arguing that such pride is contrary to Islamic teachings.
He emphasised that the prophetic tradition offers clear examples of obedience and discipline, recalling how Prophet Musa and Prophet Isa (AS) related with their followers. “There must be checks and balances. No one should behave as though if they do not attend the mosque, prayers cannot hold”. He said.
Sheikh Abiola also expressed concern over the proliferation of mosques by ‘end-time’, warning that it often leads to internal strife when proper leadership is lacking. “Problems start from the Alfas and end with them,” he declared, urging religious leaders to act with wisdom and fear of God.
The cleric concluded by calling for deliberate efforts to promote the next generation of righteous Islamic scholars, stressing that grooming responsible leaders is essential for the sustainability of Islam and the moral stability of the community.
His message, though stern, resonated with many worshippers who described the sermon as a timely reminder of the values of unity, humility, and responsible Islamic leadership.
