‘Banditry Terrorism Have No Place In Islam’ – Islamic Leaders Speak Out At Lagos Conference

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Islamic scholars and clerics from Nigeria, the United States, the Middle East, and Europe have collectively condemned attempts to link criminal acts, including banditry and terrorism, with Islam. They stressed that such misrepresentations not only distort the religion but also encourage prejudice and religious intolerance.

Gossip News Now reports that the declaration emerged from the 17th Annual Islamic International Conference, hosted by the Daaru Na’im Academy for Shariah Sciences in Lagos, which drew over 20,000 participants, including international scholars. The four-day event, held from January 1 to 4, 2026, revolved around the theme: “The Jurisprudence of the Sound Creed and Contemporary Challenges.”

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Wahiso, alongside delegates from Saudi Arabia, highlighted that Islam is grounded in peace, justice, and the sanctity of human life.

The Director-General and Chief Imam of Daaru Na’im, Sheikh Abdul Mojeed Imran Eleha, explained the purpose of the conference:

“This gathering was aimed at reinforcing the significance of authentic Islamic belief across African societies, particularly in the face of evolving social behaviors that contradict the principles of sound Islamic creed.”

Sheikh Eleha criticised groups who claim affiliation with Islam yet stray far from its authentic methodology, stating that such factions contribute to confusion and misrepresentation. He also called on Nigerian scholars to unite under the word of Allah, prioritising collective engagement over divisive social media debates.

Conference speakers also stressed the importance of religious tolerance and national cohesion as essential tools for combating insecurity. Professor Abdul Mojeed Rasaq Alaro of the University of Ilorin urged Nigerians to embrace mutual respect for the sake of unity:

“I’m calling on all Nigerians, regardless of faith or tribe. This is our only country, and we must protect it. We are brothers and citizens. We can sit together, discuss our issues, and find solutions.”

Alaro emphasised that respect for each other’s beliefs is non-negotiable:

“You don’t have to impose your faith on me, and I won’t impose mine on you. The Quran clearly states that there should be no compulsion in religion. Tolerance and mutual respect are essential.”

Justice Kamaldeen Abdulateef, Grand Kadi of the Kwara State Sharia Court of Appeal, highlighted the conference’s lasting impact on youth:

“Our younger generation will learn from this international gathering, emulating the positive practices of Islam. It will strengthen relationships between Muslims, non-Muslims, and government institutions, and promote discipline, especially regarding societal and environmental responsibilities.”

Sheikh Mohammad Ali Wahiso further underscored the role of modern technology in spreading accurate Islamic teachings to young Muslims:

“We must equip scholars to address contemporary societal needs using technology. Otherwise, youths will rely on misinterpretations they find online, which are often inaccurate.”

The conference brought together key stakeholders, including government agencies, ambassadors, traditional rulers, and academics, reinforcing the message that authentic Islamic teachings are crucial for moral order and societal stability.

In a related development, controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi recently called on the federal government to suspend military cooperation with the United States, following reports of American airstrikes in Nigeria. Gumi argued that foreign involvement could worsen security challenges and compromise national sovereignty.

While acknowledging Islam permits legitimate combat against terrorism, Gumi insisted such actions must be conducted by morally upright authorities. He questioned the moral authority of the United States in leading counterterrorism operations, citing its global military record, and warned that foreign intervention could deepen religious polarization in Nigeria:

“Terrorists don’t fight terrorists in truth; innocent people often pay the price, with hidden agendas behind the so-called fight against terror. Allowing foreign powers to operate here could destabilise the nation further.”