The Chairman of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’kamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Katsina State, Sheikh Yakubu Musa, issued a significant plea to the youth on Friday. He urged them to avoid participating in the planned nationwide protest against economic hardship to maintain peace and stability in the country. Sheikh Musa’s concern is that such a protest could have catastrophic consequences, potentially leading to the destruction of the nation.
Sheikh Musa shared his concerns with the Muslim faithful shortly after the prayer session at Al-Sanawiyya Mosque in Katsina. His message was clear and straightforward: the planned protest could escalate into something much more dangerous and uncontrollable.
“Like here in Katsina, we are also disturbed by insecurity,” he said, pointing out that the region is already grappling with significant issues. Adding a protest into the mix could worsen the situation.
Sheikh Musa emphasized the importance of avoiding the protest. “We should shun the planned protest. We should not be part of it, our youths should also shun from being part of it.” He highlighted the potential for widespread harm, referencing examples from other countries.
“Because it could destroy the nation, we have seen what happened in some countries where as a result of protest, the countries had been thrown into war and total destruction,” Musa warned.
The cleric’s appeal is rooted in a deep concern for the safety and well-being of the country’s citizens. He fears that the protest, intended to voice grievances about economic hardships, could spiral out of control and lead to violence and instability.
Sheikh Musa’s message is particularly aimed at the youth, urging them to think carefully about the consequences of their actions. The potential for a peaceful protest to turn violent is a significant risk, and he wants the youth to consider alternative ways of expressing their frustrations without resorting to actions that could harm the country.
The cleric’s remarks come at a time when the nation is experiencing heightened tensions and widespread dissatisfaction due to economic challenges. Many citizens are feeling the pressure of rising costs and limited opportunities, leading to a growing sense of frustration and anger. In such a climate, the prospect of a nationwide protest has gained traction, with many seeing it as a way to draw attention to their plight.
However, Sheikh Musa’s appeal is a call for restraint and patience. He believes that while the economic challenges are real and pressing, turning to protest is not the solution. Instead, he suggests that dialogue and cooperation with authorities could be more effective in bringing about the necessary changes.
In his address, Sheikh Musa likely drew on his extensive experience and understanding of the socio-political dynamics in the region. His position as a religious leader gives him a unique perspective on the potential consequences of mass protests, and he is using his platform to advocate for peace and stability.
His warning about the potential for protests to lead to destruction is not without precedent. History has shown that peaceful protests can quickly escalate into violent confrontations, particularly in situations where tensions are already high. Sheikh Musa’s reference to other countries where protests have led to war and total destruction is a sobering reminder of what can happen when civil unrest goes unchecked.
The cleric’s message is one of caution and foresight. He is urging the youth to think about the long-term consequences of their actions and to consider the impact that a large-scale protest could have on the country. His appeal is a call to avoid the path of destruction and to seek more constructive ways of addressing the economic challenges facing the nation.
Sheikh Musa’s plea also underscores the role of religious leaders in guiding their communities through times of crisis. By speaking out against the planned protest, he is taking a proactive stance in promoting peace and stability. His message is a reminder of the importance of leadership and the responsibility that comes with it.
Sheikh Yakubu Musa’s call for the youth to shun the planned nationwide protest is a significant intervention at a critical time. His appeal is based on a deep concern for the safety and well-being of the country and its citizens. By urging restraint and advocating for dialogue, he is promoting a path of peace and stability, rather than one of conflict and destruction. His message is a timely reminder of the importance of careful consideration and responsible action in times of crisis.
