By Miftaudeen Raji

A Lagos-based Muslim school, Flowers and Heart Nursery and Primary School has sensitized its students and parents about their civic rights against what it calls “political apathy”, just days before the Nigerian general election and as part of its contribution . on political education.

Raising awareness was held at the school’s theme day presentation on Islam, Citizenship and Democracy in Ahamdiyya, Ifako-Ijaye Local Government Area, Lagos State.

Speaking at the event, one of the guests and former secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji AbdulHakeem Kosoko, described democracy as a medicine, which leads to the participation of more people in government.

He said that Islam encourages consultation, competition and trust as they are relevant to the Islamic system and leadership.

Alhaji Kosoko, who discouraged the corruption that has taken over the system, said:

“In the last six months, I have realized that if we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill us.”

He lamented the extreme stance ideology on democracy, but believed that Muslims are a fairly balanced society.

Addressing the participants, a political aspirant, the architect Abdurahaman Bello, called on Muslims to be active in governance, to have a positive impact on society.

He cited early Muslims who had lived under the leadership and protection of non-Muslim leaders with peace.

He said that Muslims were meant to serve as role models in government and without corruption, but benevolent towards the people.

“Paying taxes makes you a good citizen since it gives you confidence to request your right to the government.”

He urged parents to get involved in politics even if they want to remain nonpartisan.

He noted that good character, competence, and the ability to deliver efficiently would be key to entering the public space as a leader.

The school noted that the event, in the wake of the 2023 general election, is an opportunity for students and parents to learn about their civic rights, citizenship and democracy.

According to the owner of the school, Ms. Maryam Omoyele, the school usually chooses a theme for its term based on the current situation in the country and since it is an election period, the theme of Islam, citizenship is considered. and democracy.

“We saw it as an opportunity to educate our children and students about their rights, how to be good and responsible citizens and also about democracy with Islamic teachings, since it is a Muslim school.”

“We have been able to teach them (students) about citizenship through some honorable guest members and political aspirants who spoke to them on the show,” he said.

Acknowledging the massive parent support and participation, Omoyele revealed that she was delighted with the program as students now understand democracy and how government works through past visits to the State Assembly and other government court damages.

Part of the highlight of the event was the display of students from various culturally diverse Nigerian tribes promoting unity and uniting Nigeria against division and corruption.