Northern Leaders Mobilize Over N2bn For Zaria Mosque While Over 50 Million Living In Extreme Poverty, By Buhari Olanrewaju Ahmed

Within two months Northern leaders have rallied to raise more than N2 billion for the reconstruction of the collapsed Zaria mosque, while over 50 million people in the country grapple with extreme poverty and its harrowing consequences.

The everyday struggle for survival in Nigeria has become a grim reality for millions, as they bear the weight of a faltering system and lack of essential support from their leaders.

Unfortunately, some have resorted to taking their own lives to escape the relentless hardship and starvation gripping the nation.

Amidst this backdrop, thousands have been rendered homeless, and forced to seek refuge in neighboring communities due to insecurity that has turned their ancestral homes into graveyards.

Both political and religious leaders in Nigeria have, at times, manipulated religion to further their own agendas, using it as a tool for personal gain while professing to serve a higher purpose.

In the words of Al-Nawawi’s Forty Hadith, “Whosoever relieves from a believer some grief pertaining to this world, Allah will relieve from him some grief pertaining to the Hereafter.” Yet, it seems that these religious leaders have failed to draw attention to the suffering of their people, focusing on their own interests instead.

The stark contrast in the allocation of resources is evident when Northern leaders can readily contribute over 2 billion for the reconstruction of a mosque but remain seemingly apathetic toward empowering their impoverished citizens through skill acquisition and self-employment opportunities.

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) devoted himself to both the spiritual and economic welfare of his people. He not only preached but also showed deep concern for their economic prosperity.

Comparing this to some Northern leaders today, it raises the question of how many of them genuinely prioritize the economic well-being of their constituents.

Instead, some appear to perpetuate conditions akin to slavery, exemplified by the Al-majiris who scavenge for leftover food on the streets for meager sustenance, represent a reminder of the economic disparity within the region.

Devoting substantial sums to rebuild a fallen mosque should not be seen as an exclusive path to paradise, especially when millions suffer from hunger due to leadership failures.

While supporting the reconstruction of the Zaria mosque is important, the focus must also be on those who will worship there.

Addressing the silent suffering of people enduring hunger and hardship should be a top priority, and it’s disheartening when leaders contribute generously but fail to empower or uplift their people out of poverty.

Our religious leaders must refrain from self-serving actions that give the illusion of serving Allah’s cause, while millions suffer and poverty escalates unchecked.

Addressing this pressing issue should be a top priority, and genuine efforts are needed to alleviate the suffering and poverty that persist under their leadership.