Prominent Kano Cleric Discusses Major Sin Most Muslims Overlook Online
- The chairman of Kano’s Council of Ulama, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, has declared that spreading fake news is a sin in Islam, equating it to the religious prohibition of fabricating lies
- The statement was made at a workshop organised by the fact-checking group Alkalanci, designed to equip clerics and imams with tools to combat misinformation on social media
- In the caution to those of the Islamic faith, both the cleric and the organisers emphasised the critical role of religious leaders and the public in verifying information before sharing it
The chairman of the Kano State Council of Ulama, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, has declared that creating and spreading fake news is religiously prohibited in Islam, equating it to the sin of fabricating lies.
Sheikh Khalil issued the strong warning on Tuesday during a two-day workshop for clerics and imams on combating misinformation on social media.
Source: Facebook
Kano Ulama warns against digital fake news
The event was arranged by Alkalanci, a fact-checking organisation in Kano State.
“Islam forbids the fabrication of lies as Almighty Allah has warned us in the Quran. Therefore, creating and spreading fake news is akin to fabricating lies, which is a sin and prohibited in Islam,” he added.
Sheik Khalil emphasised the critical role religious leaders play in educating the public about the dangers of misinformation, particularly on fast-paced digital platforms.
The cleric also urged the public to desist from sharing unverified information, stressing that religious teachings mandate truthfulness and the verification of news before dissemination.
Source: Facebook
In his welcome address, the Editor of Alkalanci, Alhasaan Bala, highlighted the timeliness of the workshop, noting the rapid spread of misleading information in the digital age.
“We are living in an era where information spreads faster, and sadly, most of what constitutes this information sharing is misleading and fake narratives that could create negative implications and division among the public,” Bala said.
He explained that the workshop was specifically designed for clerics due to their immense influence and impact within their communities.
“Your preachings and sermons are very impactful in stimulating positive social transformations for a better society. Aside from this responsibility, there is also another one of ensuring whatever information you are spreading is truthful, factual, and beneficial,” Bala added.
Bala further emphasised that anyone, including respected community leaders, could unintentionally spread false information, which shows the need for critical thinking to promote truth and facts.
Kano community bans boyfriend-girlfriend meetings
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Sharada community in Kano State has banned boyfriend-girlfriend meetings beyond 10 p.m. as part of sweeping new security measures.
The village head, Alhaji Iliyasu Muazu Sharada, announced the restriction alongside 28 other bylaws after consultations with ward heads and community elders.
“The regulations also prohibit lovers from meeting in tinted vehicles, and ban horse riding during wedding celebrations. Additionally, house agents and lawyers must now obtain the village head's approval before renting out properties,” the village head added.
Man arrested in Kano for lewd act
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a 24-year-old man, Shamsu Yakubu, was arrested by Kano Hisbah after a viral video showed him engaging in an act of sin with a goat.
The suspect claimed the act was staged to gain social media attention, with officials warning others against eroding Islamic and moral values for online fame.
Source: Legit.ng
