Sholagberu decries ‘social media disputes’ among Islamic scholars, calls for tolerance

Abdulkadir Sholagberu, the grand sheikh of the Ilorin Emirate, has urged Islamic scholars and preachers to embrace unity, warning that divisions over religious practices are deepening discord.

Delivering a sermon at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, Sholagberu said while differences in scholarly interpretations are natural, they must not lead to discord and disunity among Muslims.

The imam noted that scholars have long debated issues such as fasting in Sha’ban and the Prophet’s birthday and decried the rising tendency to attack opposing views, especially on social media.

“It is expected that scholars will differ in their deductions, but they must not allow these differences to breed envy, quarrels, and divisions,” Sholagberu said.

“The scholars of the hereafter love each other and do not envy one another, as Allah has said: ‘And they do not find in their hearts any need for what they have been given.

“It is unfortunate that instead of engaging in meaningful discussions, many resort to personal attacks and rigidly hold onto their opinions.

“Social media has become a battlefield where differing views turn into bitter disputes, creating unnecessary divisions among Muslims.”

Sholagberu urged religious leaders to prioritise unity, noting that Islam encourages mercy in scholarly differences.

He also called for greater tolerance among Islamic sects and schools of thought, warning that divisions within the Muslim community could hinder societal progress.

“Disagreements, when rooted in sound evidence, bring diversity and wisdom to the Ummah,” he added.

“However, when they stem from pride, ignorance, or the desire to prove others wrong, they become a source of division and weaken our strength as a community.

“Muslim societies cannot progress unless their scholars and leaders unite, setting aside differences that do not affect the core tenets of Islam.

“It is through unity, righteousness, and mutual respect that we can build a stronger and more cohesive Ummah.”

Sholagberu encouraged the faithful to seek Allah’s mercy through repentance and prayers to overcome the current economic hardships.

“Prices have soared, and hardship is widespread,” he said.

“But the solution lies in sincere repentance, turning to Allah, and seeking His forgiveness.”

He called on Muslims to reflect on the essence of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, using it as an opportunity to strengthen their faith and improve their character.