Opinion
Christmas rice sharing stampedes: An urgent call for leaders to be Just, compassionate
By Imam Murtadha Gusau
In the Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Most Kind
All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.
Dear brothers and sisters! Indeed, justice and compassion are two essential characteristics a leader must possess. Justice without compassion leads to tyranny, while compassion without justice creates anarchy. A leader needs to maintain a careful balance keeping the overall good of nation in mind. Allah the Almighty says:
“O believers! Stand firm for Allah and bear true testimony. Do not let the hatred of a people lead you to injustice. Be just! That is closer to righteousness. And be mindful of Allah. Surely Allah is All-Aware of what you do.” [Qur’an, 5:08]
And He the Most High says:
“O believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or close relatives. Be they rich or poor, Allah is best to ensure their interests. So do not let your desires cause you to deviate ˹from justice.˺ If you distort the testimony or refuse to give it, then ˹know that˺ Allah is certainly All-Aware of what you do.” [Qur’an, 4:135]
And Allah the Almighty says:
“Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “My Lord has commanded uprightness and dedication ˹to Him alone˺ in worship, calling upon Him with sincere devotion. Just as He first brought you into being, you will be brought to life again.” [Qur’an, 7:29]
In Madinah, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) ordered the hand of a thief to be cut. Some companions (Sahabas) thought the punishment would not be carried out because the person was a distant relative of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him). When he heard this, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) assured them that if his daughter Fatimah had been guilty, even she would not have been spared. He then reminded them that earlier nations had been punished, humiliated and destroyed because they had one law for the poor, and another for the rich. The same concern for the poor and the oppressed was the reason for Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) participation in the “Hilful Fudul”, a pact he entered into in Makkah before his Prophethood. A trader from Yemen was cheated out of his fair due by a powerful Makkan merchant. The Yemeni proclaimed his plea in the Ka‘abah. A group of notables, among them Prophet, al-Amin, vowed to restore his right and thereafter that of anyone else who was wronged. Justice, therefore, is a fundamental precept of Islam; even more so for a leader because it is part of his responsibility to maintain balance in society. Injustice invariably leads to turmoil, conflict, crisis and insecurity. At the same time, justice must be tempered with compassion. A leader must combine the two in his personality.
Respected brothers and sisters! Last week 65 people died across Nigeria at rice sharing stampedes: Ibadan 35 children died, Anambra 20 people died, Abuja 10 people died.
Wallahi, wallahi, wallahi people are very hungry. And millions of people in Nigeria are on the brink of starvation, widespread malnutrition and deep poverty. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government must urgently prioritise addressing widespread poverty, hunger, higher unemployment and the rapidly falling standard of living.
The tragedy struck at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan when 35 children died in a stampede that occurred during a children’s Christmas party.
Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of His Highness the Ooni of Ife, was a key organiser of the tragic children’s festive party. Additionally, Agidigbo 88.7 FM, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat, had actively promoted the event in the days leading up to the devastating incident.
The Oyo State Government confirmed that no fewer than 35 children lost their lives during the tragedy.
Another tragedy struck on Saturday morning as a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja claimed the lives of 10 individuals, including four children, and left several others injured.
It was gathered that the incident occurred during the distribution of palliatives by the church to vulnerable and elderly residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The FCT Police Command, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the fatalities and revealed that eight other individuals sustained serious injuries.
It was learnt that the stampede broke out as thousands of residents scrambled to access the food items, leading to chaos and the unfortunate loss of lives.
Also, in Anambra state, the Nigerian police confirmed that some number of residents of Okija community in the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State were stampeded to death on Saturday morning during a rice sharing in the community.
While an eye witness in a video of the incident said the casualties were over 100 including men, women, pregnant women, it was later gathered that no fewer than 20 people have been confirmed dead in the incident.
Dear servants of Allah! I have noticed that countries that are managed and led by toxic leaders often experience discord among citizens and a breakdown of their cultural norms, which may lead to a dysfunctional dangerous environment. On the other hand, countries with compassionate leaders at the helm tend to experience harmony and cohesiveness among citizens, which leads to a prosperous, harmonious, efficient and effective good environment.
The use of the terms “compassion” and “compassionate” in this sermon does not mean a leader acting out of pity but rather a leader who behaves and acts with sincere concern for others and considers their well-being a priority. I define a compassionate leader as one who performs selfless acts for others while expecting nothing in return. He or she is a leader who leads with good intentions for the good of the individuals, the organisation, the society and the country.
Below, I share the essential qualities and characteristics that I believe are needed to become a compassionate leader and effectively lead your country.
In a perfect world, there would be no need to address the issue of compassion and care for other human beings; unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world. Today, due to many reasons, many people are often not kind to each other. In some countries, leaders lead and advocate for the establishment of a chaotic environment and encourage their followers to sustain it. To recapture our compassionate essence and gentle humanity, I have found that it’s incumbent upon the leaders of today to lead by a kind and a compassionate example.
A countries culture, norms, beliefs and rituals are all made up and developed by the people who work within it. Whether a great leader is born or made is a much-debated topic, but I believe that a leader is made and developed by the same environment he or she works and lives within. The innate leadership qualities that some people may have, if not developed properly over time, may diminish and vanish. Becoming a compassionate leader involves the same direction and steps of development. Effective compassionate leaders must develop their personality and characteristics.
Based on my understanding of compassion as defined above, compassionate leaders must cultivate and master the following personality characteristics and qualities:
1. Empathy
Compassionate leaders must be able to understand and share the feelings of their peoples. You may be successfully able to develop this ability by genuinely trying to understand others and feel what they feel. Put yourself in their position, become them and then assess the situation and make your decision.
2. Sympathy
Compassionate leaders must be able to sympathise with their peoples by caring about their well-being and be willing to provide them with the help they need. Ask your peoples bluntly what satisfies their country’s and even personal (livelihood) needs. By being sympathetic and meeting the needs of your peoples, you can motivate them to achieve the country’s goals.
3. Consideration
Compassionate leaders must be able to show careful thought and behaviour to their peoples by not causing them unnecessary hardship, discomfort or harm. Be considerate of the presence of your peoples. As a leader, you set the working relationship standard of what’s expected of each other. Mutual respect should be the practiced norm of your country. To gain the loyalty and trust of your peoples, use your influence and authority to improve their conditions.
4. Understanding
Compassionate leaders must be able to compassionately perceive the behaviours of their peoples. Understanding that conflicts can exist as a positive thing within your environment is essential because it helps to challenge the status quo. Be tolerant and aware of your people’s feelings and forgive their shortcomings when needed. When a conflict arises, ask for their open feedback and explanations. Your understanding may help clarify any misunderstanding.
5. Caring
Compassionate leaders must be able to show sincere care and kindness to their peoples. This complements your consideration of them. Try to show that you care by being kind and empathising with your peoples.
6. Concern
Compassionate leaders must be able to show kindhearted concern for their peoples and make their well-being a priority. Showing concern complements the caring and consideration characteristics. Make sure your concern is genuinely practiced. Let them know in advance that your concern about them is meant to help them improve, achieve and become.
7. Ability To Collaborate
Compassionate leaders must be able to work together with others while leading their peoples. This characteristic intertwines both internal and external environments. Internally, compassionate leaders collaborate with their peoples and across functional and national boundaries. Externally, compassionate leaders work together with their country’s competitors to the betterment of society. Your open communication is key to an effective collaboration. Set the national goals of the team and expect them to achieve them, but do not set high expectations. Delegate authority and tasks as needed.
Possessing the qualities and characteristics described above can lead you onto the path of compassionate leadership, but be careful — I have found that only authentic and ethical leaders may truly develop into genuine compassionate leaders. By mastering the above qualities, you may also become a thoughtful, mindful, purposeful and noble leader.
Dear brothers and sisters! Know that leadership is a trust (An Amanah) and the job of the leader is to discharge this responsibility to the best of his abilities. Failure to do so will render him liable before Allah the Almighty on the Day of Judgement. In the Islamic system, a person does not seek leadership, it is entrusted to him because it is a grave responsibility. The candidate must be a good communicator, able to motivate and mobilise people and inspire them to rise above petty preoccupations for the sake of a higher and more noble purpose: the establishment and defence of the State. This he must demonstrate through personal sacrifice, courage and ability to keep the group focused on the goal.
The most important task of a leader, however, is to implement the laws on earth. This is the ultimate mission of man as Allah’s Khalifah (vicegerent) on earth which can only be achieved in the framework of the good state. The Prophet’s Sirah offers the best and most comprehensive guide and model to achieve this.
Lastly, I pray, may Allah accept all our Ibadah (worship) and supplications, May He guide our leaders and provide us with a lasting peace, unity and progress in our beloved country Nigeria!
I pray, may Allah protect our country Nigeria, protect and guide its leaders and its people from every evil, from every calamity, tribulation and difficulty; May He bring about safety, peace and security to our country. May Allah save us from divisions, disunity, differences, disobedience, corruption, terrorism and all evils.
May Allah protect our country Nigeria, and it’s people, and May He the Most High protect all the Muslim countries, all the Muslims and all the humanity.
O Allah, bless Nigeria with continued peace, progress, strength, unity, and development.
O Allah, unite our country around the principles of justice, peace, love and faith.
Put peace and love in our hearts for the diversity that makes our country so beautiful.
Allah, the Most Merciful, we pray for our country Nigeria, to remain tolerant and loving, remove prejudice from our hearts, and allow us to love our brothers and sisters in humanity.
O Allah, allow our governments to remain accountable to the people, give them vision and wisdom, as they take decisions affecting peace in our world so that they may uphold peace in the world, advance the welfare of our country and deal kindly and justly with all our communities.
O Allah, Most Strong, give us the strength to protect and care for our neighbours.
Make our hearts and minds aware of our heritage, fulfilling duties and responsibilities as a citizens.
O Allah, Most Merciful, allow us to show kindness to those most vulnerable in society.
Protect us from evil, inspire and guide us in defending those open to abuse.
O Allah, Most Generous, allow us to give in charitable activity, and to help those most in need.
Make us more conscious of what is not good for us.
O Allah, Most merciful, Most Generous, please give us the patience to continue to learn from one another and work towards a more peaceful and kind world.
Make our hearts generous so that we may treat others as we wish to be treated ourselves. Help us to share that which we have with others, for your sake. Strengthen us, love us and be kind to all of us, ameen Ya Mujib!
All perfect praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May the peace, blessings and salutations of Allah be upon our noble Messenger, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), and upon his family, his Companions and his true followers.
Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of: Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah Mosque; and Late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene Mosque, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com; or +2348038289761.
This Friday sermon (Jumu’ah Khutbah) was prepared for delivery today Friday, 25 Jumadal Akhirah, 1446 AH (December 27, 2024).
Opinion
State Police in Nigeria: Understanding the true position of the proposed constitutional framework
DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel (Rtd.)
The renewed national debate on state policing has sparked intense discussions. Supporters see it as a solution to Nigeria’s worsening security challenges. Critics, however, fear political abuse and threats to national unity. Given these differing views, it is important to understand the true constitutional position of the current proposals before the National Assembly.
An examination of the *Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026 (SB. 1055)*, along with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) analysis of the earlier House Bill (HB. 617), shows that the proposed framework is neither a full transfer of policing powers to the states nor a continuation of the current centralized system. Instead, it introduces a cooperative federal policing model.
This model balances state autonomy with national standards and constitutional safeguards.
The first key point is that the Federal Police will not be abolished. The proposal creates a Federal Police Service while allowing State Police Services to operate alongside it. The Federal Police will continue to handle federal responsibilities, including counter-terrorism, cybercrime investigations, border security, organized crime, inter-state offences, and the protection of federal institutions and assets.
It is also important to note that state policing is not compulsory. States that lack the financial or institutional capacity to establish their own police services can continue to rely entirely on the Federal Police Service. In simple terms, the amendment gives states a choice, not an obligation, to establish their own police organizations.
The proposed framework sets strict conditions before a State Police Service can begin operations. A state must pass its own enabling law, establish the required institutions, and obtain certification confirming that it meets nationally defined minimum standards.
These standards will cover recruitment, training, vetting, discipline, firearms management, the use of force, accountability systems, and criminal information management.
One of the most debated issues is the possibility of federal interference in state policing. The Senate Bill addresses this concern by limiting federal intervention to exceptional situations. Such intervention may occur where there is an actual or imminent breakdown of public order. It may also occur if a governor requests assistance, if a State Police Service becomes unable to function, if there is evidence of widespread violations of fundamental rights, or if threats extend beyond state borders and affect national security.
Any federal intervention must be temporary, necessary, and proportionate. It must also be subject to judicial review. The President must authorize it in writing, and notice must be given to the Governor, the State House of Assembly, the National Police Council, and the National Assembly. In addition, such intervention cannot dissolve a State Police Service or suspend democratic institutions, except as permitted under existing constitutional provisions.
The framers of the Bill have also addressed concerns about possible misuse of State Police Services by governors. The proposed safeguards expressly prohibit governors from directing State Commissioners of Police to target political opponents, political parties, associations, or groups outside the provisions of the law.
Commissioners who believe a directive is unlawful or inconsistent with national standards may seek a review through the appropriate Police Service Commission or the courts.
To strengthen institutional independence, the proposed amendments provide security of tenure for both the Inspector-General of Police and State Commissioners of Police. Their removal would require valid reasons, a fair hearing, recommendations from the National Police Council, and approval by a two-thirds majority of the relevant legislature.
These measures reflect widely accepted international standards for democratic policing.
Another important feature of the framework is the clear limitation on federal control over State Police Services. While the National Assembly will establish national minimum standards, it will not exercise routine control over appointments, promotions, transfers, suspensions, dismissals, or operational decisions within State Police Services. The only exception is during constitutionally approved interventions.
This approach preserves state autonomy while ensuring consistent professional and ethical standards nationwide.
The PLAC analysis correctly notes that the proposed model does not create a fully independent state policing system. Instead, it incorporates elements of federal oversight to address concerns relating to funding, accountability, human rights protection, and potential political misuse. The objective is to decentralize policing without weakening national unity or undermining the constitutional order.
Viewed objectively, the proposed amendment seeks to balance local responsiveness with national integrity. It aims to bring policing closer to communities while maintaining safeguards against abuse. It also protects the shared security interests of the Federation.
In essence, Nigeria is not moving toward two competing police systems. Rather, it is moving toward a cooperative federal policing arrangement. This model recognizes the need for local control of security issues while preserving constitutional mechanisms that safeguard democracy, human rights, and national unity.
The success of this initiative will depend not only on constitutional provisions but also on the strength of institutions, adherence to professionalism, and the political will to uphold the rule of law. Like any major reform in a democratic society, state policing should be judged not only by fears but also by the safeguards it contains and the practical benefits it can bring to the security and welfare of Nigerians.
DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel (Rtd.).
By Jamilu Uba Adamu
Since 1987, June 26 has been designated by the United Nations as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking—a day set aside to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and its devastating effects on individuals and society. This year’s theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” reminds us that while the fight against drugs continues, our strategies must evolve.
Simply put, the drug problem is still with us. New drugs continue to emerge, and we must respond with innovative solutions, including the use of sports to keep our youths engaged and productive.
Nigeria’s greatest resource is not oil; it is its youth. The energy, creativity, and determination of young people will determine whether we build a stronger nation or lose a generation. One of the most effective tools for channeling that energy positively is sports—but only when it is built on discipline.
Sports is more than playing football on weekends or sprinting on the track. It teaches valuable life lessons. When a young person wakes up at 5:00 a.m. for training, they learn punctuality. When a team loses and returns to train harder, they learn resilience. When eleven players on a pitch follow the instructions of one coach, they learn respect for authority, teamwork, and discipline.
Here in Kano, the effects of drug abuse are both painful and visible. Drug abuse is fueling fadan daba, phone snatching, and other violent crimes across our streets and communities. The truth is simple: idle hands are the devil’s workshop, while busy feet on the pitch have little time for crime or drugs.
Talent without discipline is wasted talent. Many of our youths possess enormous potential, but without discipline, that potential often turns into frustration. Discipline means:
- Self-control — saying “no” to peer pressure, drugs, and violence.
- Consistency — training even when no one is watching.
- Respect — for rules, opponents, coaches, and oneself.
A boxer who cannot control his temper outside the ring will never become a champion inside it. A footballer who skips training will never wear the national jersey. Discipline is the bridge between potential and achievement.
In our communities, we see too many young lives derailed by drugs. The equation is clear: idleness + bad company + lack of purpose = drug abuse. Sports helps break that cycle.
Let us encourage our youths to choose the pitch over the street corner and the “jungle.” Let them choose training over idleness. Let discipline be their guide in life, just as it is in sports.
To parents, schools, and government: invest in sports facilities and mentorship programmes across our 44 Local Government Areas. Every playing field we build in Kano is a prison we may never need. Every disciplined athlete we nurture is a future leader we secure.
If we get this right, Kano, with its vibrant and youthful population, will not only win trophies at national sporting events but will also reclaim its promising young people from the grip of drug abuse and crime.
Mr. Jamilu Uba Adamu is the Officer-in-Charge of Sports, NDLEA Kano Strategic Command.
He can be reached via jameelubaadamu@yahoo.com.
Urges electorate to remain peaceful, prayerful, and law-abiding
By Lamara Garba
The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared that his political future, including the question of re-election in 2027, rests entirely in the hands of Almighty Allah, stressing that political power is neither a matter of life and death nor something that any individual can permanently give or take away.
Governor Yusuf made the remarks while addressing Kano pilgrims and Hajj officials in Makkah during a Sallah visit on Wednesday.
Speaking before hundreds of pilgrims, the Governor quoted verses from the Holy Qur’an, reminding the faithful that ultimate authority belongs to Allah alone, who grants power to whom He wills and withdraws it whenever He pleases.
According to him, while politicians and their supporters often become consumed by political calculations and permutations, true believers understand that leadership is a divine trust bestowed by Allah at His appointed time.
“Power belongs to Allah alone. He gives leadership to whom He wills and takes it away from whom He wills. No human being can stop what Allah has destined, and no one can impose what Allah has not ordained,” Governor Yusuf said.
The Governor noted that he remains completely submissive to the will of Allah regarding future political developments, including his possible re-election, insisting that his focus remains on serving the people of Kano State diligently rather than becoming distracted by political anxiety.
He stressed that elective office should never be viewed as a do-or-die affair, adding that public service is meaningful only when carried out with sincerity, the fear of God, and a commitment to the welfare of the people.
“Leadership is not a matter of life and death. What matters most is serving humanity, discharging one’s responsibilities faithfully, and leaving the rest to Allah. Whatever Allah decrees will surely come to pass,” he stated.
Governor Yusuf, however, urged Kano citizens to remain politically conscious and actively participate in the democratic process by ensuring that they possess valid voter cards ahead of future elections.
He called on those whose voter cards require renewal to do so promptly and encouraged eligible citizens who have not yet registered to take advantage of the registration exercise before it closes.
The Governor said voter registration remains a civic responsibility that enables citizens to exercise their constitutional right to choose leaders and contribute to the growth and development of society.
He also appealed to the pilgrims to continue praying for peace, unity, stability, and prosperity in Kano State and Nigeria as a whole.
Observers believe Governor Yusuf’s remarks reflect growing confidence within his administration following what many regard as remarkable achievements recorded over the past three years in education, healthcare, infrastructure development, agriculture, human capital development, and women and youth empowerment.
The Governor maintained that while political debates and speculations may continue, the final decision on who occupies positions of authority rests with Almighty Allah, whose decree cannot be altered by any human effort.
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