By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
In his closing remarks at the interfaith seminar organized by the Students and Women’s Forum of the Islamic Movement, held in Kano on Sunday, April 13, 2025, Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky emphasized the importance of enhancing the moral upbringing of followers.
Sheikh Zakzaky stated, “I often say that if we observe our fellow believers who call others to the true path of religion, what frustrates me is when they do not reflect the teachings they preach. It’s even more concerning when I see them resembling those they call upon to reform.”
He added, “If a person strives to guide others, yet fails to rectify their own behavior, no genuine reform can take place, because only one who is reformed can effectively call others to reform.”
Further, Sheikh Zakzaky urged believers to exhibit behaviors that distinguish them from others, asserting, “Our behavior must stand out, aligning with the principles we preach, so that anyone who comes into our fold sees us as role models. This will lead to the spread of the truth until it gains strength and Allah, in His mercy, grants us victory.”
The Sheikh stressed the importance of maintaining consistency in faith practices, particularly highlighting the significance of night prayers, Quran recitations, and supplications. He also emphasized that the holy month of Ramadan serves as an opportunity for spiritual renewal, encouraging believers to stay close to Allah, particularly as they prepare for the next Ramadan.
Sheikh Zakzaky further called on followers to demonstrate perseverance and resilience, urging them to bear any tribulations imposed by unjust rulers. He remarked, “You will be tested with patience. Indeed, paradise is the reward for enduring hardship.”
In his message, Sheikh Zakzaky clarified that the movement he leads is not calling for sectarianism but for the restoration and confirmation of Islamic values across the continent. He noted, “This call is not for any particular sect. It is not about spreading sectarianism; it is about upholding the true religion of Islam.”
He concluded by affirming that the struggles faced by religious followers are not to be avoided but endured with faith. “If anyone expects to follow the path of Islam without challenges, they are deceiving themselves. True believers will face trials, just as the prophets and saints did before them.”
Sheikh Zakzaky’s message left a call to action for his followers to strengthen their faith, engage in moral reform, and prepare for the challenges ahead, with the assurance that divine success will follow through perseverance and dedication.
