By: Sani Abdullahi Gwarzo
Former Kano State Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Alhaji Ibrahim Dan Azumi Gwarzo, has cautioned Islamic scholars against declaring Muslims who celebrate Maulid disbelievers, warning that such pronouncements are fuelling division within the Muslim community.
Dan Azumi Gwarzo, who also served as Chairman of the Kano State Land Allocation and Management Committee, made the call while speaking with journalists.
He criticised the practice of some scholars who condemn Muslims for commemorating the month in which Prophet Muhammad (SAW), regarded as the best of creation, was born.
According to him, scholars should not use the pulpit to make takfir pronouncements against Muslims belonging to other sects, particularly those who celebrate the birth of the Prophet.
“Such statements only deepen divisions among Muslims,” he said.
Dan Azumi Gwarzo further underscored the significance of the month and day of the Prophet’s birth, describing them as occasions of great honour and importance to Muslims.
He explained that this was why some Muslims expressed their joy at the arrival of the month and organised Maulid gatherings, particularly in Islamiyya schools.
He urged Islamic scholars to prioritise tolerance, mutual respect and unity in their teachings, stressing that differences over religious practices should not become a source of hostility among Muslims.