Idris cautions against using pulpit for political, personal interest

Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi has urged Islamic scholars to stop using the pulpit to advance their political and selfish interest.

Idris gave the advice when he received the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad Bashir, who paid him Sallah homage at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday.

“It is glaring that some Ulama mount the pulpit or use Tafsir sessions to castigate leaders and cast aspersions on their persons for smear campaign or self fulfilment.

“I am also not immuned from such acts; such unholy attitude must cease, to safeguard the sanctity of religion and protect the dignity of leaders,” the governor said.

The Ulama, he emphasised, should uphold their value as moulders of good character and morality and stop soiling the faith because of their personal aggrandisement.

Idris, who holds the traditional title of Kauran Gwandu, acknowledged the support and cooperation of Gwandu Emirate Council to his administration.
He urged the traditional institution in the state to sustain prayers for peace and prosperity in the country.

The governor also expressed happiness with the resuscitation of the annual Durbar, which was suspended for many years.

“For a long time, Durbar has not been staged by the Gwandu Emirate Council until now while I am the governor of the state.

“Being my first observance of the Eid-el Fitr as sitting Chief Executive, I am highly impressed with the colourful event,” he said.

Idris assured people of the state that his administration would pursue ongoing reforms aimed at economic growth and development of infrastructure in the state.

Earlier, the Emir, reprsented by Alhaji Abdullahi Umar, the Wazirin Gwandu, pledged the support and loyalty of the emirate council to the state government.

He commended the governor for the remarkable achievements being recorded across the state, including turning the state capital to a modern city.

It was reported that the emir led an enchanting durbar procession from the palace to the government house, watched by thousands of residents.