IBRAHIM QUADRI
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on Thursday, urged women to take practical steps by promoting peace and tolerance to drive social change guided by the noble principles of Islam.
Mrs Sanwo-Olu made the call during the 5th edition of Muslim Sisters’ Seminar with the theme, ‘Transforming Society: Islamic Perspectives on the Roles of Faith, Knowledge and Action,” at the State House, Alausa, Ikeja.
The seminar was attended by various Muslim groups including female Muslim students where topics were treated to enlighten them on Islamic principles of tolerance and for individual and societal transportation.
The First Lady said, “As is customary in the Office of the First Lady of Lagos State, this seminar usually heralds the upcoming Eid-al-Adha celebration, which is just about a week away.”
She explained that the theme was well thought out on how “we can harness the power of our faith, embrace the light of knowledge and translate both into meaningful action.
“Faith, as we know is the foundation upon which our moral compass is built. It drives our compassion, honesty, justice and sense of responsibility,” the First Lady stated.
She added, “Today, we have been greatly enlightened by our esteemed Islamic scholars , whose deep knowledge and insights have expanded our understanding of the theme. Personally, I have taken noted and learned a lot from the various presentations. I have little to add but heartfelt appreciation.
“As mothers, daughters, wives, professionals and nation-builders, we must pursue both secular and religious education with zeal and encourage the same for our children and communities. When women are educated, societies flourish. When Muslim women are educated, societies benefit from wisdom rooted in divine guidance.
“This seminar challenges us to take practical steps, from promoting peace and tolerance to mentoring younger women, to driving social change- all guided by the noble principles of Islam.
“I am particularly pleased with the carefully curated sub-themes, which address some of the most pressing issues of our time.
“The importance of tolerance in a Multi-Religious Society reminds us of the essence of peaceful co-existence, especially in a cosmopolitan city like Lagos. Islam teahces respect for others and we must uphold and champion that spirit.”
She stated further, “Breaking Barriers and Overcoming Gender Bias speaks directly to both historical and contemporary challenges facing women. I salute our esteemed speakers and panelists for offering deep insights into how dismantle systemic barriers and uplift the status of women.”
She noted, “Let your faith be your shield, your knowledge your sword and your actions your legacy.
“Let us be determined to become agents of change , starting with ourselves and expanding our impact through collective effort,” Mrs Sanwo-Olu submitted.
One of the guest lecturer, Prof Tajudeen Yusuf who spoke on the topic, Importance of Tolerance in a Multi-religious Society: The Case of Lagos State, stated, “Islam places great emphasis on tolerance and peaceful co-existence. The Qur’an states: “There shall be no compulsion in the religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong ” Q2:256.”
He explained, “This verse underscores the principle of religious freedom and respect for others’ beliefs.
“Additionally, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was reported to have said, “Whoever harms a non-Muslim under our protection, I will be his adversary on the Day of judgement.”
Prof Yusuf added, “Despite sporadic tensions, Lagos State has demonstrated a relatively stable inter-religion environment. This is due to deliberate efforts by government institutions, religious organizations and local communities to promote dialogue and collaboration.”
Speaking on the theme, Prof Khadijat Olaniyan-Shobowale noted, “The true owner of wealth in Islam, the Ultimate ownership of all wealth belongs to Allah. Humans are appointed as stewards (khalifa) entrusted with managing resources responsibly.
“To transform society, she advocated, “Wealth should be used to serve the interest of others. The Prophet Muhammad advised, “Whoever takes care of an orphan who has wealth, let him do business for him (with his wealth) and not leave it to be consumed by zakah.”
She further stated that zakat is a mandatory annual charity, constituting 2.5% of a Muslim’s savings, aimed at redistributing wealth and alleviating poverty.
She therefore advised, “Islam’s framework for wealth distribution emphasizes compassion, justice and fairness, providing a holistic approach to economic well-being and social harmony.”
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