In a compelling address, Professor Afiz Oladosu, a former Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Ibadan, has called upon Muslim communities and organizations to proactively establish strategies aimed at diminishing the prevalence of begging among Muslims throughout the nation.
Renowned for his expertise in Arabic and Islamic studies, Professor Oladosu emphasized that it falls upon Muslim associations, groups, and societies to implement effective mechanisms to deter individuals from adopting begging as a profession.
These vital statements were made on a Sunday in Ibadan during the 2023 delegates’ conference and the inauguration of the new executive council of the Political Awareness Group (PAG), led by Dr. Lukman Fasasi. The event, themed “Creating a Pathway for Sustainable Development: Muslims on Call,” witnessed the presence of notable figures, including the former Secretary to the Oyo State government, Alhaji Akin Olajide, Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Professor Soliu Adelabu, Baagi of Saki, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Adegoke, Professor Abideen Olaiya, and members of the outgoing PAG executives, led by Barrister Abdul-Waheed Olowonjaiye.
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Represented by the Head of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Ibadan, Professor Ibrahim Usman, Oladosu offered sage advice to Islamic organizations, urging them to ensure that each Muslim within their sphere of influence possesses a means of sustenance. This proactive approach, he stressed, would significantly contribute to the discouragement and reduction of begging among Muslims nationwide.
In his address, Professor Oladosu articulated, “We must consider the fundamental objectives of Islamic law, which include safeguarding the future of unborn generations. In line with these principles, Islam discourages begging as a profession. While Islamic teachings permit begging during times of crisis or disaster, it unequivocally forbids it as a profession.”
He continued by referencing the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him), who conveyed the importance of self-sufficiency and labor, stating that Muslims should not seek assistance from others when they are capable of working for their livelihood. Oladosu also recounted an incident involving Umar Ibn Kattab, the second caliphate, who compelled some Muslims to leave the Mosque, admonishing them that reliance on divine enrichment must not equate to a cessation of labor. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to actively engage in productive work.
“In light of these teachings,” Professor Oladosu emphasized, “it is incumbent upon our Muslim societies and communities today to establish mechanisms that dissuade begging among Muslims, thereby empowering each member to secure their source of livelihood.”
This resonating call to action by Professor Afiz Oladosu underscores the imperative for proactive measures within Muslim communities to uplift their members, promote self-sufficiency, and ultimately, reduce the prevalence of begging as a means of survival.
