Prof. Sabitu Olagoke

The much awaited general elections are just 11 days away and preparations by the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) are in an advanced stage. However, Nigerians have continued to express mixed feelings about the elections. In this interview, the Founder, Spiritual head and Grand Imam of Shafaudeen-in-Islam worldwide, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke JP outlines the reasons why Nigerians must vote in a new set of leaders that possess the political will to address the country's myriad of challenges. Excerpt:

Do you think the outcome of the general elections will usher in a new set of leaders in Nigeria?

Credible leadership in the Nigerian context is a farce, if we are to consider the socio-behavioral status of each of the presidential candidates as well as others who are vying for other sensitive positions in the next political dispensation. Each of them, however, have varying degrees of image issues. Without doubt, a winner must emerge among them. The present situation in the country is a reflection of the cumulative deficiencies in our leaders-past and present consequences of poor socio-economic conditions of our people and their environment due to a low level of performance, institutional indiscipline and corruption, as against the main objective of democracy which we are operating as our political philosophy. The justice system remains selective in the dispensation of justice. The legislative arms are weak and usually act out the script written by the executive, resulting in very weak policy formulation and implementation at the expense of the welfare and wellness of the people. In effect, the excesses of the executive remain uncontrollable, resulting in unwarranted marginalization and poor infrastructure that is dysfunctional, making the lives of Nigerians to be at the mercy of deteriorated services. The general elections, therefore, as it will come by God's grace, in this month and in March, is going to be a date with our resolve to take our destinies in our hands. Hence, we must not toy with it and we must let it be free,fair and credible and without acrimony. Nigerians are now more conscious and aware of the importance of good governance to effect peace and sustainable development as observed in many nations where democracy is functional. For us in Nigeria, we are tired of playing around democracy for its dividend to be mere tantalizing mirages. In addition, various indicators of development are at the lowest ebb. For example, human development and infrastructure indexes, high inflation rates, poverty, hunger and diseases, devastating climate change effects and institutional corruption. Nigeria needs credible leaders that will be visionary and proactive with a network of wisdom to passionately solve the problems in the land. The President and other political office holders that will emerge after the general elections must be ready to fix the weak areas and must be very selfless in discharging their duties to be able to minimally deliver the expected dividends of democracy. Above all, we need a detribalized President and a non-religious bigot who will be able to bring sanity into the religious system to be able to spiritually have a united voice in correctin all the wrongs. This is the only way by which good governance can be nurtured through the spiritual drive for accelerated socio-economic development. Various lessons have been going on with respect to how best to vote without wasting the exercise. The only wisdom in collecting the Permanent Voters Cards(PVC) is to use them wisely on the days elections will take place to ensure that credible leaders emerge and correct all aberrations in the land, for Nigeria to become a better place to live in and to prosper at a sustainable level.

The language used in the media in relation to people with disabilities, may be an indication of whether social change has or would occur. For example, media stories about graduates or students wit disabilities often focus on the sacrifices of family and caregivers, instead of the students and the challenges there faced getting an education.

It is disheartening, therefore, that persons with disabilities are seldom covered in the media and when they are presented, they are typically damaging stereotyped and not properly epitomized.

It is not uncommon to see persons with disabilities treated as objects of pity, charity or medical treatment that have overcome a tragic and disabling condition or conversely, presented as champions who have accomplished great feats, to inspire the non-disabled.

The Editors, producers and programmers are influenced by their own thoughts of disability and what they trust will attract listeners. Equity and Equality challenges indeed!

The media, therefor re expected to: * Map out and circulate information to the masses-educate, entertain, act a platform for public service announcements.

However, the influence that the media holds over the society has not always been used for the benefit of society, particularly in relation to disability, where the media has continued to add to the discrimination of disabled people.

*Be a dynamic tool in creating awareness, refuting stigma and misinformation. It should be an authoritative force to change societal misconceptions and present persons with disabilities as individuals that are part of human diversity.

* In addition, to media coverage of issue of people with disabilities, access of people with disabilities to the media is equally an issue of concern. For example, most television programs do not have sign language interpretation. The implication of this is that people with disabilities rarely watch non-signed television programs.

The Way out

Though there have been some steps forward in removing social barriers to accessing the media, and fighting against unethical coverage of hidden impairments in the media over the last few years, there still remains a lot to be done.

The following should be addressed:

a) Focus on the Barriers Disability is sometimes covered as if it is remarkable that someone with a disability has been able to do the regular things like get education or job, or get married. This reinforces stereotypes that these things are not typical for someone with disabilities to do. Hence, viewpoint need to be integral to the story of the person and not disability.

b)Increase the percentage of people with Disabilities in Media Employment The under-representation of people with disabilities within the media workforce has seeming consequences on the control of the PWD community to influence how they are portrayed within the media and society. Increasing the percentage of people with disabilities in employment within the media industry would be a huge step towards removing stereotypes and empowering disabled people in the general community.

c)The digital revolution has opened new possibilities for Persons with Disabilities, we, therefore, need to ensure that access for them includes technological access. Assistive technologies could be explored in this regard.

d) Explore Opportunities International commemoration and other public events can offer outstanding opportunities to create awareness and conduct outreach to promote and highlight the concern of persons with disabilities.

e)Partnerships It is vital to include persons with disabilities and their organizations in preparing for any media and communications strategy or event.

As with all social change which needs drivers, and until there are more constructive representations of persons with disabilities living regular lives comparable to 'everyone else', there will continue to be incorrect, inappropriate portrayals. It is sacrosanct for the media to play effective roles in influencing public opinion about Disability. You can and  you should.

We live in a world where there is an imperative focus on young people and People with Disabilities(PWDs) on the Inclusion Agenda.

We, however, need to move from vulnerability to leadership and delivery of a truly transformative agenda. There is a divine need to walk the talk about the promotion of an inclusive society.

For youths to be leaders of tomorrow; they must be equipped to achieve their dreams and for PWDs not to be burdensome, they must be positively engaged, thereby giving them the opportunity to participate actively in issues that directly impact their lives, which is literally everything in actual fact.

Today, more than ever, society needs precisely this kind of healing to drive out poverty and unemployment. Only when PWDs have the opportunities they deserve, can they generate ideas, products and many more for society at large.

Policies without commensurate implementation usually aggravate the hardships of the victims of the circumstance, in the case of PWDs, who deserve our empathy, rather than unnecessary sympathy. Empathy shows most of the walking, the talk of mitigation and prevention.

This snowballs into the stakeholders' readiness to work towards realizing the United Nations admonition on every nation to accept the concept of good governance and philanthropy.

The wellness of people with disabilities is equally important as an achievable feat by the government and other stakeholders, most especially in the areas of good parenting using Maslow's hierarchy of needs, physiological needs, safety and security factors, social needs, self-esteem and self-actualization for all, including PWDs.

The government needs to sensitize the public, including all stakeholders, about funding the causes of people with disabilities in these respects as an antidote to insecurity for all to benefit from the expected dividends of democracy.

For any society to have peaceful co-existence, the people must be united with high respect for humanity, taking all other factors that differentiate our identities to be secondary.

This is what the Holy Quran emphasizes as expected of every house of God to dwell their teachings and sermons on. 

''The Holy Quran 49 : 13 refers, ''O mankind! We created you from a single pair of a male and a female and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other, not that ye may despise each other.....''

A high level of respect for these injunctions will make us realize our claim that God is one, as impressed in the same verse above. ''Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is he who is the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted with all things.

The Holy Quran 30 : 22 makes us to realize that our differences are creations of God which we must not lose to the disadvantage of others; ''And among the signs is the creation of the heaven and the earth and the variations in your languages and your colors : verily in that are signs for those who know.''

The Holy Bible : Mark 12 : 31 refers,'' And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.''

By extension, therefore, peace must reign in the houses of God for adherents to become epitomes of light and salt. For the world to be habitable and worthy of living.

Also, Matthew 5 : 13-16 is a good reference for religious adherents to be worthy of missionary work where they are expected to role model virtues and teach righteousness and peace to the people of the world.

''13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.''

The Holy Quran 3 : 104 refers, ''Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is god, enjoying what is right and forbidding what is wrong. They are the ones to attain felicity.''

Proverbs 31 : 8-9 is also instructive. ''Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. 9 Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.''

In the same manner the Holy Quran 47 : 35 wholesomely submits, ''Be not wary or faint-hearted, crying for peace, when you should be uppermost : For Allah is with you and will never put you in lose for your good deed.''

Click here-Living in Peace

Religious leaders must avoid scriptural misinformation and misinterpretation, most especially in the areas that discriminate, marginalize and hurt womanhood.
Avoid painting the girl child as half a male counterpart as well as avoid Female Genital Mutilation(FGM).
Develop the mental capacity of the girl child on par with their female counterparts.
Female children should be allowed to choose a career of their choice based on their God-given talents.
forms. Avoid minor weddings and other forms of abuse against the girl child. Every male orientation must change from perceiving women as objects of sex.
The focus must be on gender equity to avoid partriachal domination through such a policy that will allow women effective participation in all spheres of life.
Women must take the chance to lead and not live at the mercy of men(malevolence)but  believe in themselves to achieve any feat. The Holy Quran states that they must not tread a path of being suspicious of promiscuity and they must be able to assert meritorious authority when charged with responsibilities or positions of power, such as in the case of the Queen of Sheba, Bilqees.
''O wives of the Prophet, you are not like anyone among women. If you fear Allah , then do not be soft in speech [to men], lest he in whose heart is disease should covet, but speak with appropriate speech.''
Q27 VS. 30-36, ''Indeed, it is from Solomon, and indeed, it reads: 'In the name of Allah , the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful,Be not haughty with me but come to me in submission [as Muslims].She said, "O eminent ones, advise me in my affair. I would not decide a matter until you witness [for] me. They said, "We are men of strength and of great military might, but the command is yours, so see what you will command. She said, "Indeed kings - when they enter a city, they ruin it and render the honored of its people humbled. And thus do they do.  But indeed, I will send to them a gift and see with what [reply] the messengers will return. So when they came to Solomon, he said, "Do you provide me with wealth? But what Allah has given me is better than what He has given you. Rather, it is you who rejoice in your gift.''
The Challenges impeding Women from Occupying Leadership Positions
Women across nations face  several challenges but African countries particularly experience the following:
*Cultural bias favoring male children.
*Domestic violence-mentally, sexually, physically and emotionally by their husbands or partners(molestation, assault and battery to rape).
*Female child labor, abortion, prostitution, and female genital mutilation.
*Child marriage-According to official statistics, 43% of Nigerian girls become married before their 18th birthday and 17% before turning 15 albeit in the northern part of the country.
*Exorbitant Candidate Nomination Fees for Election.
Prof. Olagoke delivered this paper at a Public Function in Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria on Tuesday 23rd August, 2022

Revitalize the culture of integrity; promote functional education and ethical professional practices.

Let all active players in the scheme of community service and national building realize that the houses of God agree with the culture and the educational institutions in this respect.

Let us equally realize that each citizen in the community and the nation has his/her Faith where he/she practices his/her religion.

It is, therefore, imperative to use the teaching effect of Culture, Education and Religion to promote peace for ease of promoting an Inclusive society in the area of functional democracy for justice, equity and Sustainable Development to naturally promote peace and harmony which all religious goals stand for, through the chosen houses of God.

No religion teaches evil(Q6 vs. 108, Q22 vs. 67). Let us stop religious discrimination, while at the same time keeping and respecting all the houses of God.

This can be achieved by maintaining the sacredness of the houses of God. Also, adherents must follow the path of righteousness for a god state of piety.

Adherents must all shun all forms of iniquities, so as not to convert the houses of God into houses of profanity.

All of us must, therefore, realize our status as stakeholders-religious leaders and adherents-to be able to foster peace in the land.

Let our thoughts, acts and deeds including body languages stand on our determination to correct aberration through peaceful process(Q47 vs. 35).

Be not fainthearted, crying for peace, when ye are the uppermost for Allah is with you and will never put you in loss for your god deeds.

The only major agent of socialization is a government that can effectively mitigate and eradicate insecurity in the land.

The is because of the importance of credible elections which we must allow come 2023 in Nigeria. If insecurity is to end and pave the way for a stable polity, then all arms and tiers of government must be on deck to achieve a favorable end.

Luckily for Nigeria democracy has been adopted as the country's politcal philosophy and it stands on the two legs of justice and equity concept, giving a large room for the promotion of an inclusive society.

Credible people will, therefore, facilitate peace and sustainable development that would promote a safe and secured environment. If we cannot achieve a hundred per cent success rate in governance, then a 70 per cent pass mark will be able to address the fundamental needs of the people that would keep them busy and make them friendly to one another because under this condition nobody would lack except those that may crave for luxury.

The justice system is expected to take care of this area in terms of promoting sanity and preventing indiscipline, moral rot and all forms of waywardness and corruption.

The Holy Bible in Genesis 3 : 19 emphasizes the need for shelter, clothing and food for every person in a decent society.

''19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.''

In the same manner, the Holy Quran 11 : 6 emphasizes the natural design of God, the almighty Allah on this same antidote to insecurity that will serve as therapy to human restive nature.''There is no moving creature on earth but its sustenance dependenth on Allah : He knowteh its resting place and its temporary deposit : all in a clear Record.''

The Government has all the wherewithal in terms of power influence and wealth as that natural resources of the sovereignty for the common welfare of the people under them. This is why the government is a key factor in checkmating insecurity and promoting peace and sustainable development through the common wealth of the land for the people's wellness and general welfare. Let's make this possible in Nigeria come 2023 before, during and after the general elections.

The number of ownership centers in Nigeria in particular and all over the world in general, gives one much to worry about; when it comes to the low degree of spirituality and the high consequences of value and moral degeneration. This is promoting insecurity, a low degree of wellness and a very poor human development index.
Most people who claim to be religious have drifted towards anti-scriptural tendencies.
In reference to the Holy Bible 1 Corithians 3 : 16-17, every human is portrayed as an empty shell bereft of divine grace.
Don't mind their outward appearance, which most of the time turns out to be mere games of deceit and hypocrisy.
''16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

17 If any man defile the temple of God, he shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.''
In the same view, the content of the Holy Quran 17 : 21 is another litmus test that validates the above assertion.
''See how We have bestowed more on some than others(social rank), but verily the hereafter(spiritual ranking requirement) is more in rank and gradation and more in excellence.''
It is high time we realize as living beings the message of the Holy Quran 49 : 13 that states, ''Verily the most honored of he is who is the most righteous(spiritually upright person.
To regain our honor, therefore, let our attendance of worship centers routinely or otherwise meet up with the personality traits test of the counseling psychologist by following the Smart concept in all our edalings to be able to cope with the spiritual and social demands for a prosperous, safe and secured orderly world which shall be deviod of corruption and other devinat behavior.
It is imperative for adherents to seek the counsel of those who uphold their of those who uphold thier faith transparently. This is exemplified in the Holy Bible 2 Timothy 3 : 16-17, ''16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.''
Similarly, it is entrenched in the Holy Quran 33 : 35 : for every human through whatever he believes in, society demands a person's participation through ;
1) Just worship and request acceptance in an environment of love.
2) Your state of scripture compliance.
3)in Allah without adulteration.
4) Commitment and devotion to the work of God.
5)Be the vanguard of truth against all odds.
6)Have the streak of patience in tolerance.
7)Develop humility for peace.
8)Imbibe the spirit of charity for philanthropy.
9)Be selfless for others to live well.
10)Chastity is crucial to fidelity.
A shortfall of any of the above mentioned will lead to the missing goal of divine forgiveness and prayer acceptance for perfect God/man relation.
To be counted worthy, exemplary, reliable and dependable in society, religious people must be scripture-compliant. This can be better found, maintained and sustained through routine checks based on personality traits tests as an evaluative tool for worship centers.

There is a neeed for an aggresive cleansing damage contorl to avoid possible human degenration.
The Holy Bible in Amos 4:1-2  hignlights the affection of God towards the oppressors and ego centered  personalities. The words of God is just like rain that does not discriminate.

"Hear this word, ye kine of Bashan, that are in the mountains of Samaria, which oppress the poor, which crush the needy, which say to their masters, Bring, and let us drink.

2 The Lord GOD hath sworn by his holiness, that, lo, the days shall come upon you, that he will take you away with hooks, and your posterity with fishhooks.

3 And ye shall go out at the breaches, every cow at that which is before her; and ye shall cast them into the palace, saith the LORD.

4, Come to Bethel, and transgress; at Gilgal, multiply transgression; and bring your sacrifices every morning, and your tithes after three years:''

There is a great challenge in achieving credible leadership. In addition the lack of care for surborinates and the people leaders ought to  effectively serve, most especiall7y when the wealth of the society or nation is already  entrusted in to their hands.

Vehemently, therefore, God the Almighty warns against such an attitude and state of ingratitude.

The Holy Quran 3: 75 refers to, "Among the people of the book (religious people and custodians of the law) are some who, if entrusted with a horde of gold, will readily pay it back; others, who, if entrusted with a single silver coin will not repay it unless thou constantly stoddest demanding  because, they tell a lie against Allah and well they know it.''

The best is expected from accredited religious leaders, but unfortunately, we are yet to have true religious leaders who fear God by following due process in doing things, but most of us plunge ourselves into avarice.

If the system is not to collapse due to human definace to the dictates of God, we must all show concern about the plight of the people by acting according to our various religious faiths to put in place credibility for the system to run correctly.

The concept of philanthropy will not only unbruden the yoke of the oppressed but help us realize credible

leadership and good governance.

This is the emphasis of God in the Holy Quran (9:34) on the leaders we must neither be nor emulate. "O ye who believe, there are indeed many among the priests and anchorites, who in falsehood devour the wealth of many and hinder them in the way of Allah." And there are those who hoard gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah; announce to them a most grievous cahstisement. "

For a nation to be truly independent, leaders must not be corrupt for them to be able to offer effective damage control.

The horrific murder of  Deborah Samuel, an indigene of Niger state and a 200-level Home Economics student of the Sheu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto state is the major talking point among Nigerians for now. In this interview, the Grand Imam of Shafaudeen-in-Islam Worldwide, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke calls on the Federal Government to ensure that the Late Deborah's killers are brought to justice. Excerpts :

What is your reaction to the gruesome murder of Deborah Samuel, a 2oo level student of the Sheu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto?
The dastardly act that happened in Sokoto state, is just one out of several cases which indicate that Nigeria is heading towards the precipice and its people already adapting to bestial behavior.
Extrajudicial killing is despicable.
It is happening mainly because all the agents of socialization have failed.
The challenge before the Government is to direct its energy toward the value restoration need. This is because no religion teaches evil and there is nowhere in the Holy Quran, where women should be abused and defamed, and where the consequence of the acts of blasphemy is the death penalty.
Suffice it now to say that there is the need for all religious leaders to teach the scripture through a positive mindset while taking up the role model stance for society.
In a situation wherein the youth become restive with delight to maim and kill fellow human beings, the future of society and the nations is at stake. Indeed, the efforts to tackle insecurity have had little impact.
It is imperative for the government to bring the killers of Deborah Sanmuel to justice. This will serve as a deterrance to others, who might be nurturing such sinister acts.
All rfelgious leaders must preach love, unity, tolerance, patience and forgiveness.
The educational insitutions too, need to nurture our pupils and students to imbibe the core values of integrity, love and unity.
The cultural institutions and the Government must place value on the revival of good parenting for our youth not to shame their places of origin through unwarranted iirational behavior and  instinct for destruction.
Above all, Deborah Samuel must not die in vain.

Believers of all religions are expected to be scripture compliant and role model virtues. Belief in social advancement must focus on development driven through ethics.

Generally, therefore, believers must become the embodiment of people with high regards for social norms and global best practices, otherwise they become bunches of quackery that destroy rather than build.

Believers must pass through the test of Godly virtues that take care of the interest of others as exemplified in the Holy Bible, Matthew 5 : 5–9, '' Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.''

Believers are regarded the epitome of successes in all aspects of human endeavor. They are even humble in their prayers and the way they comport themselves in the society through non-ostentatious form of living despite their been at vantage positions of power, influence and affluence.

The Holy Quran 23 : 2–5 refers, ''In the name of God, the Gracious, the Merciful. 1. Successful are the believers. 2. Those who are humble in their prayers. 3. Those who avoid nonsense. 4. Those who work for charity. 5. Those who safeguard their chastity.''

The Holy Quran states that those who exceed the above limits in their routine interactions or keeping good neighborliness shall be regarded as transgressors.

The Holy Quran 23 : 8–11 crowns it all, ''Those who are faithful to their trusts and pledges. 9. Those who safeguard their prayers. 10. These are the inheritors. 11. Who will inherit Paradise, wherein they will dwell forever.''

To be successful, therefore, the prerequisite condition is for believers to focus on the ideals of life.

Nigerians have been called upon to cultivate good nutrition habits to remain healthy and sound.
This call was made on Thursday by a Health Nutritionist, and President of BEWEM Services/Berg Live Healthy Foundation, Ms. Betty Folarin-Akinlosotu during a Health, Nutrition, and wellness workshop with Theme- Learning Healthy Habits and Lifestyles that Helps you prevent and cure diseases in the most affordable ways- in Ibadan.
 
''Micronutrients are very good for the body. It provides vitamins essential for the human body. You can get it from foods and vegetables. Good nutrition keeps you healthy and sound. Eat lots of vegetables to keep you healthy. Observing regular sleep and rest in addition to embarking on exercises  will keep you healthy and sound.''
In his remarks, the Vice President of the Foundation, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke outlined the role of nutrition in healthy living.
''Nutrition is a hyper-critical part of health and development because the child and maternal health, stronger immune systems, lower risk of non-communicable diseases(for example, diabetes and cardiovascular disease), and longevity are functions of good and healthy nutrition. Malnutrition is a diverse issue that needs support from multiple sectors-Nutritionists, Dieticians, the Medic, etc. The determinants of malnutrition are multiple and extremely complex. So encouraging quality and safety of the food as a lifelong behavioral trait is the duty of all general and nutrition specialists in particular.''

Friday, April 29th

Winding Up Period
The Ramadan fast would soon be over. There is, therefore, the need to reflect on its grip on the society making everybody believers and unbelievers; to have self-restraint with caution in every step an individual takes.
Within the period institutional discipline is achievable. My appeal, therefore, is for all to wait upon the Lord for the result of the fast.
If it is good, self-evaluation will attest to your being fair in learning and accdepting the truth, but if it is otherwise, you have to pray not to be among the losers. Be wise. Ramadan Mubarak.
Saturday April 30th
Be Diligent
Diligent  adherents of Islam only  shall reap the dividendes of the Ramadan fast exercise.
They are such people who are mindful of God before taking any decision or acting any script.
They are the patient ones who will never resort to frivolities or way wardness to be go-getters.
They are dedicated to the service of God and they accept set in principle of the concept of philanthropy to keep good neihborliness and boost the morale of the needy.
The refernce points are the Holy Quran 92 : 5-13, 9 6-12, 64 : 15-17. Make it your study guide. Ramadan Kareem.
Sunday, May 1st
Sincere Glorification
The Almithy Allah loves those who take  a matured route to implement their projects. They are sincere go-getters.
Remember the perserverance and patience with streak of consistencies exhibited  by sincere adherents of Islam during the Ramadan fasting period.
Are you one of them? of so, congratulations.
Remember also, that if after the Ramadan fast the expectations of God is clearly stated in the Holy Quran 6 : 151, 31 : 12-19. Use these verses to run a good home, establish credible leadership and run a good government as charged by Prophet Dawud in the Holy Quran 38 : 26.
Body preservation from sins and crimes and soul purification from devilish thought processes as chagred by the Ramadan fasting exercise objectives, apart from the core values that can make the soicety a better palce for all. Respect the Almighty Allah on this for posterity to judge you aright. Ramadan Mubarak.

Sunday, April 2th
Gratitude
As Muslims who are observing this year's Ramadan Fast, we must have a cause to be grateful to God for giving us the opportunity to pass through the first two phases of mercy and forgiveness.
We must, therefore, be grateful, by imbibing the culture of being beneficial to others and ever forgiving those who might have offended us. We should also be scripture compliant as stated in the Holy Quran 14: 7, '' And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.' "
Be cautious and be mindful of God and society. Ramadan Kareem.

Monday, April 25th
The Harvesting Period
Be reminded of the fact that we are now in the third segment of the 30 days Ramadan Fast, also known as the period of reaping the fruits of our labor.
Itikaf or spiritual retreat is commanded to be observed in and around sacred mosques for us to be able to shun the hustle and bustle of city life and get concentrated on how best to be aligned with God and His injunctions, to be able to achieve perfect God/man relationship.
The summary of the intention, for the right observation of the Itikaf period, is stated in the Holy Quran 18: 10, ''..........Our Lord!  Bestow on us mercy from thyself and dispose of our affair for us in the right way.'' Be rightly guided. Ramadan Kareem.

Tuesday, April 26th
Knowledge for Guidance
Remember the message of Ramadan as a compulsory exercise in which we must have learned how to have self-restraint for us to be able to do things the right way and accordingly through the concept of the fear of God or due process.
Reflect on your past as being full of anomalies and decide to make the necessary adjustments for a better lifestyle of scripture compliance.
But make premium your needs and for the right knowledge and God's guidance that will always lead you to make the right decision always, most especially after the month of the Ramadan fast.
The Holy Quran 87: 6-9 refers, ''We shall make thee read so that thou shalt not forget. Save that which thou willeth! Lo! He knoweth that disclosed and that which still is hidden; and we shall ease thy way onto the state of ease, therefore, remind men(that is people) for use is the reminder.'' Be an exemplar. Ramadan Mubarak.

Wednesday, April 27th
Significance of the Nigth of Power
Realize that the Holy Quran was descended down for mankind, the sacred month of Ramadan during the night of Power.
 The Holy Quran 44: 1-4 refers, ''Ha, Meem. By the clear Book, Indeed, We sent it down during a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn [mankind]. On that night is made distinct every precise matter -''
There is a need to go beyond the logic of even an old number to fix the night of power.
Once we have been able to take the opportunity of Ramadan to become wholesome in Islam and ever found wanting under the watch of scripture compliance, God the Almighty Allah Himself will touch you to accurately observe the night of power, when therein come down the angels and the spirit by Allah's permission on every errand. Ramadan Kareem.

Thursday, April 28th
Syllabus Coverage Essence
During the period of your, Itikaf reflect on the following, with respect to your spiritual development voluntary nawafil at the midnight during the month of Ramadan: 1) In-depth study of the Holy Quran. 2) In-depth analysis of the Holy Quran with detailed explanation and circumstances surrounding revelations. 3) What about voluntary almsgiving and compulsory almsgiving.
The essence of observing the above mentioned in the month of Ramadan could be likened to the way we acquire the wealth of education and experiences in schools for us to use for the rest of our lives.
Do not, therefore, abuse the availed opportunities offered in the month of Ramadan for you to be wholesome through the following verses of the Holy Quran which must become part and parcel of your lifestyle -33: 35, 2: 208-209, 3: 102, 11: 113 and the Holy Bible John 4: 34. Let all these verses be your study guide even after the Ramadan fast. Ramadan Mubarak.

Tuesday, April 19th

Fasting Exercise for Self-Discipline
Just as in the Holy Bible, Proverbs 25: 28 emphasizes the essence of self-discipline. This virtue if absent will make every human being vulnerable to all forms of socio-spiritual hazards.
The Ramadan fast harps on the need to have self-restraint, this is a major reason for making it compulsory for all adherents of Islam. Ramadan Kareem.

Wednesday, April 20th
The Maintenance of Self-Restraint
The Almighty Allah places emphasis  on the observation of the following to develop self-discipline :
1)Drinking/eating during the day is prohibited.
2)Having sexual affairs during the day is also prohibited.
3)Breaking the fast with alcohol.
4) Adherents must not curse or use abusive words while the fast is on.
5)They must not also engage in adultery, backbiting, or slander.
6) They must avoid any immoral act.
Take heed to be successful during the Ramadan fast. Ramadan Kareem.

Thursday, April 21st
The Exception Law
The Almighty God emphasizes in the Holy Quran 2: 185 that the Ramadan fast is not meant to punish adherents of Isalm, but to reform them and fortify them socially and spiritually. Hence the relaxation law in favor of Islamic adherents with due respect for certain unusual conditions that may have to do with human health issues.
The aged ones who do not need much food, but a high level of nutrients for their upkeep to the pregnant ones who need balanced diets for the sake of the development of the fetus and the mother's health to be able to have a safe delivery. The mother is equally exempted during the breastfeeding period because the child needs the nutrients from the mother.
Those who have terminal diseases which require terminal drugs are equally exempted from the Ramadan fast.
However, the following shall repay the missed fasting days after the Ramadan fast for the count to be 29 or 30 days.
The affected are those in the menstruation period, the sickly ones, and the travelers who suffer from heavy fatigue.
How merciful is our God? Ramadan Kareem.

Friday, April 22nd
Security Essence
The Almighty Allah declares His presence wherever there is the tranquility of the mind and wherever there is peace in the environment.
The Holy Quran 37: 1-4, therefore, admonishes every government and institution to take as a matter of paramount importance, the issue of security. ''By those who rate themselves in ranks(orderly manner), those whose souls are strong in repelling evil(security agencies to note), those who thus proclaim the message of Allah(the cleric) to emphasize the essence of being scripture compliant and to be exemplars in this respect because the whole essence is to preserve the heritage of oneness of God.''
May the devil never hijack our pleasure into upheaval. Use the Ramadan fats to ensure peace. Ramadan Kareem.

Saturday, April 23rd
Divine Inspiration
Do you realize that our social pursuit on matters concerning our assumed yearnings for maximum realization of our destiny is purely materialistic?
This does not matter to God, hence, most of the time our yearnings are premature as faith. For a maximum realization of our destiny, we must totally surrender to the will of God to be given the divine inspiration to articulate our social desires in order that our objectives and goals are realized with ease and maximally too.
The Holy Quran 17: 21-22 refers, ''See how we have bestowed more on some than others; but verily the hereafter is more in rank and gradation and more in excellence. Take not with Allah another god or thou O man wilt sit in disgrace and destitution.''
Ponder well on this and make the necessary adjustment. Ramadan Kareem

The Fear of God Promotes and Resolves Differences by Prof. Sabitu OlagokeThe main purpose of religion is to a positive mindset and arouse conscience for people to have direct access to God to live exemplary lifestyles based on doing things through the due process that is according to the curriculum or laid down rules without default.

Read-Helplessness in the Face of Dirt

Those who enjoy such grace will have the characteristics, endowed knowledge, and the power of a discerning mind. A meaningful socio-spiritual life depends on this to be self-fulfilled.

Sensible people do things the right way while senseless ones are frivolous and wayward.

-Legalizing Crime and Criminality

The Holy Bible, Proverbs 1: 7 admonishes us on this,: ''7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.''

In the Holy Quran, 8: 29, the need for and the importance of the fear of God is clearly stated. ''O ye who believe. If ye fear Allah He will grant you a criterion to judge between right and wrong, remove from you all evil deeds and forgive you: For Allah is the Lord of grace unbounded.''

The benefit of living by the dictates of God that culminates into the fear of God not only extends to the protection of children but equally affords us the opportunity to triumph over evil like the snares of death.

The Holy Bible Proverbs 14: 26 refers, '' In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.''

-Landlords and Tenants Associations, Crime and Criminality

Above all, there is the need to sensitize every person through the media of culture, education, religion, and political institutions on the importance of good neighborliness, the virtues of scripture compliance, and the respect for the dignity of labor and legitimate earnings.

The Holy Quran 10: 62-64 specifically explains the reason why every person must work towards being acknowledged by God, the almighty Allah. ''Behold! Verily on the friends of Allah, there is no fear nor shall they grieve. Those who believe and constantly guard against evil for them are Glad Tidings in the life of the present and in the hereafter: No change can there be in the words of Allah. This is indeed the supreme triumph.''

A word is enough for the wise.

-Law Enforcement: The Reactionary Approach

-Government Workers-A Subject of Debate

The performance of pupils and students at the elementary, secondary, and tertiary levels of education in Nigeria, over the years, has become a source of worry and concern for parents, guardians, and other stakeholders in the education sector.
The prevalent mediocre staus that characterize the products of mots of these educational institutions now constitute a major reference point for various categories of discussants.
The Founder, Spiritual head, and Grand Imam of Shafaudeen-in-Islam Worldwide, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke opines that parents and guardians must put in more effort in grooming their children and wards, spiritually, morally, and educationally.
Prof. Olagoke also asserts that the government at all levels should initiate concrete policies that shall reduce hunger and poverty to the barest minimum while at the same time increasing the annual budgetary allocation for the education sector. Excerpts :
The overbearing influence of hunger and poverty in Nigeria has culminated in the lack of motivation and the attendant loss of commitment towards rendering selfless service is one of the major reasons for the unimpressive performance of pupils and students in both internal and external examinations.
The harsh environment brought about by economic hardships and insecurity is not conducive for learning.
The factors impeding the performance of pupils and students include the overbearing influence of parents and guardians on their children or wards on the choice of course of study. This is without consideration for the intelligence, interests, ability, and capability of these children and wards.
Other impediments include poor study habits, psychological adjustment problems, distraction, low retention, the effect of the wrong peer group, emotional challenges, low achievement motivation, health challenges, lack of financial support, and time management.

Read-Helplessness in the Face of Dirt
In addition to this, absenteeism and truancy are now adopted as a normal routine for several of these children due to the loss of interest in the academic programs.
For the parents, noticeable fundamental defects are lacking in the area of proper guidance and the provision of basic learning needs including reading materials.
Also, the inadequate interaction with the children and their teachers, family problems, and financial difficulties paint the parents in a bad light.

-Legalizing Crime and Criminality
For the teachers, the use of verbal reinforcement strategy is absent, punctuality is lacking, poor interpersonal relationships and the authoritarian approach to teaching are impediments. So also is the inequality among students.
Furthermore, the syllabus coverage is not encouraging, absenteeism is the order of the day, poor teaching methods dominate the school system, incessant strikes, and the diminishing interest in the quest to ensure that students understand what they are taught.

-Landlords and Tenants Associations, Crime and Criminality
For the school, the large class size with limited teaching materials constitutes major impediments.
Trailing the learning environment which is not conducive, is the shortage of reference materials for the practical courses and the use of audio-visual materials is non-existent.
Above all, there is no proper orientation towards research.
The Government must address the following to ensure that pupils' and students' performances improve :
1)Unstable educational policy.
2)Leadership problems and challenges.
3)Poor supervision and monitoring mechanism.
4)The shortage of specialist teachers in schools-capacity building essence must be regular and directed towards the areas of need.
5)No job security and a consistent report of job losses.
6)Poor salaries for teachers, irregular payment of their salaries, and the lack of incentives to motivate them.
When all these are addressed, pupils and students would be able to perform creditably well in internal and external examinations.

Law Enforcement: The Reactionary Approach                       -Government Workers-A Subject of Debate

The deterioration of profile that routinely increases hardships for the people and also creates the poorest of the poor economy is avoidable. Even when the government is not forthcoming in the areas of the provision of the basic amenities and infrastructure.

Unpleasant consequences are also avoidable if we can be scripture compliant by heeding the voice of God.

In the Holy Quran 92 : 5–7, the almighty Allah states, ‘’As for the one who is charitable, mindful ˹of Allah, We will facilitate for them the Way of Ease.’’

This is fundamental to the concept of philanthropy and must be imbibed as a culture.

Read-Helplessness in the Face of Dirt

However, there are due processes to be followed for charity to be methodical without abuse.

In the Holy Quran 2 : 270–271 the due process to follow is structurally emphasized.

‘’(2:270) Allah knows whatever you spend or whatever you vow (to spend). The wrong-doers have none to succour them.310 (2:271) If you dispense your charity publicly, it is well; but if you conceal it and pay it to the needy in secret, it will be even better for you.311 This will atone for several of your misdeeds.312 Allah is well aware of all that you do.’’

-Legalizing Crime and Criminality

In the same manner, the emphasis on the due process to be followed in dispensing for charity is cavalry stated in the Holy Bible, Matthew 6 : 1–4, ‘’1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.

2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:

4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.’’

-Landlords and Tenants Associations, Crime and Criminality

If charity dispensation is formally organized, it becomes a divine construct which may not allow any form of abuse.

It is applicable to all spheres of life, starting from the home front to the community servcie arena and the society at large. It is, therefore, important to train ourselves on how best to say No to miserly lifestyles.

There is a saying, Charity begins at home, while the society stands to benefit from the concept of give and take, care and share.

-Law Enforcement: The Reactionary Approach

The Holy Quran 92 : 8–13 refers, ‘’But he who is a greedy miser and thinks himself self-sufficient and gives the lie to the best , we will indeed make smooth for him the path to Misery Nor will his wealth profit him when he falls headlong into the Pit. Verily we take upon us to guide and verily onto us belongs the End and the beginning.

Be rightly guided by philanthropy rather than been miserly.

-Government Workers-A Subject of Debate

In Nigeria, the Government at all levels are now rounding up their activities in preparation for the end of this dispensation. Based on this premise, the Founder, Spiritual Head and Grand Imam of Shafaudeen-in-Isalm Worldwide, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke opines that the people’s representatives have not been above board in their performances. Excerpts : 

Governance is better articulated through the system of justice and equity concept, where all forms of discrimination and marginalization would be absent for it to be productive for enhanced prosperity.

Nigeria needs to provide a leadership that is credible and visionary.

Nigeria cannot be said to have those who represent them in government , who have been transparent and selfless to the extent of reducing hunger, diseases and poverty that is prevalent everywhere.

Read-Helplessness in the Face of Dirt

The representatives have done little or nothing to address the worrisome absence of basic amenities, food insecurity, shortage of houses for the people among several other inadequacies.

The failure of governance at all levels in Nigeria has manifested in the declining capacity of political leaders and representatives of the people to recognize the systemic risks such as inherent and embedded in the following anti -societal acts and practices viz electoral malpractices, terrorism, armed robbery, kidnappings for ransom and ritual, ritual killings and police brutality.

-Legalizing Crime and Criminality

It is unfortunate to note that Nigeria lacks a system of government in which leadership is based on capability that is competence, good work attitude, timely response to the yearnings of the people, meritocracy and the promotion of excellence.

-Landlords and Tenants Associations, Crime and Criminality

Rather than the above mentioned, governance in Nigeria has been overwhelmed by individuals who attain power through nepotism rather than competence as evident in the following anti-social practices : Influencing voters with food rather than vision, the consolidation of power through intimidation or the imposition of candidates who are unknown to the people.

-Law Enforcement: The Reactionary Approach                -Government Workers-A Subject of Debate