FAJR REMINDER: OUR LAND IS IN DISTRESS

 FAJR REMINDER: OUR LAND IS IN DISTRESS

By: Umm Affan

Jumādā al-Ākhirah 2, 1447 (23-November-2025)

Nigeria is in dire straits. The country is suffering from severe issues such as killings, kidnappings for ransom, and various forms of terrorism, banditry, and criminal activities. We seem to be nearing the end of times. Yā Salām! Abū Hurayrah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) relayed that the Prophet (ﷺ) stated, “Time will pass rapidly, knowledge will be withdrawn, tribulations will prevail, greed will be cast into hearts, and there will be many upheavals.” When asked, “What is upheaval?” the Prophet replied, “It is killing.” [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 7061, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 157]

With a heavy heart, I address my beloved nation, Nigeria, this morning, reflecting on the ongoing security challenges that afflict us, the frightening nature of our predicament, and the blame-shifting that we engage in.

It is both unfair and disgraceful that when a “Muslim” harms people of other faiths, we hastily associate that person's actions with Islām. This gives rise to the narrative of Christian Genocide in Nigeria. This fundamental issue has perpetuated the connection of criminals and their deeds to Islām. As a result, those who commit atrocious acts find shelter under this narrative, as instead of focusing on the criminals and their transgressions, the emphasis falls on their religion—Islām.

For the terrorism, banditry, and lawlessness in Nigeria, the focus should be on Nigeria itself, not Islām. Islām does not equate to violence. The terrorists and bandits in Nigeria do not embody Islām. Their attacks have led to catastrophic outcomes, taking the lives of thousands of Nigerians, irrespective of their faith. They particularly target anyone who stands against them, and their primary adversaries are Muslims who do not align with their beliefs. They label them hypocrites and consider it permissible to shed their blood.

Thus, it is incorrect to label the killings perpetrated by these wicked individuals in Nigeria as a Christian genocide. Disagreeing with this portrayal of Christian genocide is not an attempt to diminish the reality of the killings, but rather to clarify the situation. If we refer to it accurately as terrorism against Nigerians, there would be no objections.

At this time, we must increase our supplications. Our Adhkār, especially those recited in the morning and evening, should not be taken lightly. We should remain vigilant regarding our security and take necessary precautions for ourselves and those around us.

I beseech Allāh, the Only One who accepts supplications, to continue shielding us and restore peace to our nation. Aameen.