In an exclusive interview with The Punch, the Chief Missioner of Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT), AbdulAzeez Onike, addressed critical issues ranging from the 30th anniversary of NASFAT, the proposed Sharia panel in the South-West, and ritual killings to the spiritual significance of Ramadan.
30 Years of NASFAT: Successes and Challenges
Reflecting on NASFAT’s three-decade journey, Onike described it as “rewarding, eventful, and interesting,” emphasizing that the society has significantly impacted lives in Nigeria and beyond.
“We set out with a vision, and by the grace of Allah, we have been able to achieve so much. There is no gainsaying the fact that we have realized those visions. We have made an impact in many lives, in Nigeria and outside the country,” he said.
Among NASFAT’s major achievements is the establishment of Fountain University in 2007, which has produced Ph.D. holders and continues to build a reputation for academic excellence. Onike proudly noted that “Fountain is the only university where students will greet you on campus. We combine learning with character.”
NASFAT’s impact extends beyond education, with initiatives such as the NASFAT Agency for Zakat and Sadaqat, which has disbursed over N800 million to needy Nigerians, regardless of religion or background. “It is interesting to know that some of those who subscribe to our Zakat and Sadaqat agency are not our members… they trust us with their money, confident that we are accountable,” he stated.
Additionally, NASFAT runs a legal aid council that provides free legal assistance to the less privileged, a travel agency that has received the highest Hajj pilgrim allocation in the past three years, and NASFAT Relief International, which supports victims of natural disasters.
Despite these achievements, Onike admitted that attracting youth to the society remains a challenge. “We are working hard to make NASFAT a youth-populated society,” he said, citing empowerment programs as a key strategy.
Sharia Panel Controversy: ‘Why the Uproar?’
On the controversy surrounding the proposed introduction of a Sharia panel in the South-West, Onike expressed surprise at the resistance.
“Sharia has been with us for a long time. Hell was let loose because of the proposed Sharia panel, despite the fact that Sharia has been part of our system from inception. Why should people who are not adherents of our faith argue with us if we say we want to live our lives the way our Creator has mandated us to?”
He emphasized that Sharia is an internal matter for Muslims and does not concern other religions. “Sharia has been operating in the North for ages. We have never had a case of someone who does not subscribe to Islam being subjected to Sharia law,” he said.
Onike suggested that the resistance stems from “a lack of awareness and education,” insisting that Sharia embodies justice, mercy, and morality. He also drew parallels with Islamic banking, which faced initial opposition but is now widely accepted—even by non-Muslims.
“The Managing Director of Jaiz Bank once said that the first set of customers to patronize the bank were Christians. I don’t understand why some people are being hypocritical when it comes to Muslim matters,” he remarked.
On Ritual Killings: ‘Stop Associating Crime with Islam’
The NASFAT leader strongly condemned ritual killings, distancing Islam from the criminal actions of individuals.
“People should not ascribe crime to Islam as they often do. No religion is without bad eggs. Adolf Hitler, Charles Taylor, and the notorious kidnapper Evans were Christians. Many pastors and prophets have been caught with human parts, but we never ascribe their crimes to Christianity.”
He emphasized that Islam is firmly against all forms of crime, stating that any individual caught committing an offence should be held accountable as an individual.
Ramadan: Beyond Fasting, A Call to Spiritual Growth
As Ramadan approaches, Onike stressed that fasting should lead to moral and spiritual improvement.
“If Ramadan does not instill piety in you, drive you away from sin, and make you good to your neighbours, then Allah does not need your fasting,” he stated. He urged Muslims to use Ramadan as an opportunity to drop bad habits and adopt new virtues.
“The essence of Ramadan is to enter it and, upon completion, abandon some of your vices. Set a goal to drop at least one vice and embrace one virtue that you previously lacked in each Ramadan.”
Final Thoughts: Education Over Controversy
Onike’s interview highlights NASFAT’s contributions to education, social welfare, and religious enlightenment while calling for informed dialogue over the Sharia panel issue. His message is clear: Muslims must focus on spiritual growth, and the public must avoid misconceptions about Islamic principles.
