ISLAM, THE FASTEST-GROWING RELIGION IN IGBO LAND
By Mazi Haruna Ifeanyi Nwaeze
Across different parts of Igbo land today, something remarkable is gradually taking place. More and more Igbo people and communities are beginning to learn about Islam, ask questions about it, and some are choosing to embrace it willingly after sincere study and personal conviction.
From Anambra to Abia, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi and other parts of the Southeast, there are growing stories of Igbo men and women becoming interested in Islam. This development reminds us that Islam is not a religion belonging to one tribe or one geographical region. Islam is a universal message for humanity.
But what does Islam actually mean?
Islam means submission to the will of the One God, Allah, and living according to His guidance. At its heart are faith, peace, justice, mercy, love, honesty, compassion and respect for human dignity. A Muslim is one who submits to Allah and strives to live a righteous life.
Islam does not require an Igbo person to abandon being Igbo. Becoming Muslim does not mean abandoning our language, our names, our family bonds, or every aspect of our cultural heritage. Rather, Islam teaches us to preserve what is good and beneficial while rejecting practices that contradict the worship of Allah or principles of justice and morality.
This is why I believe the spread of Islam among Igbo people can also encourage us to rediscover the values that have always been important in our communities: brotherhood, communal responsibility, respect for elders, hospitality, honesty, hard work, justice, love for one another and care for the vulnerable.
Islam calls us beyond religious and tribal divisions. It teaches that humanity comes from one Creator and that no person should be considered superior simply because of tribe, colour, language or wealth.
Imagine an Igbo society where Christians, Muslims and traditional believers can live together with mutual respect; where our differences do not become reasons for hatred; where our young people are encouraged to seek knowledge, reject violence and corruption, and work for the progress of our communities.
That is the kind of unity and peaceful coexistence I believe we should pursue.
The growing interest in Islam among Igbo people should therefore not be approached with fear or hostility. Let us ask questions. Let us study. Let us research Islam from its authentic sources rather than judging it through rumours, stereotypes or the actions of people who claim to represent it.
Islam is growing because people are discovering its message for themselves. Whether one ultimately accepts Islam or not, every sincere person deserves the opportunity to understand it properly.
As an Igbo Muslim, I believe that embracing Islam does not make me less Igbo. I remain proud of my heritage, my language, my people and the positive values of our culture. My faith teaches me to pursue truth while promoting peace, love, justice, unity and humanity.
Islam in Igbo land is not a threat to our identity. Let us learn, understand and allow truth to speak for itself…
Compiled
Office of Igbo community of Islamic movement under Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky
Contact or enquiry – 09123240387
One love. One humanity. Igbo kwenu.
Dear Readers, Good and credible news reportage is tedious task and requires huge finances.
We are soliciting your Noble support for as low as N1,000 your support would go a long way in assisting us to continue to guarantee our readers quality news.
Bank transfers can be made to:
Account Name: Harvest and Commercial
Bank: Sterling Bank
Account Number: 0078627735