Unity and Reform: A Sharīʿah Perspective on the New League of Imams in South-West Nigeria

The launch of a new League of Imams and Alfas in South-West Nigeria must be examined through the principles of Islamic jurisprudence, not through emotion or partisanship. The foundation in Sharīʿah concerning Muslim affairs is unity, not division. Allah says: “Hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not be divided” (Āl ʿImrān 3:103), and He warns: “Do not dispute, lest you lose courage and your strength depart” (Al-Anfāl 8:46). 

The Prophet ﷺ also instructed: “Hold fast to the Jamā‘ah, for the Hand of Allah is with the Jamā‘ah.” These texts establish that preserving collective unity is a major objective (maqṣad) of Sharīʿah.

From a fiqh perspective, organizations and leagues are considered means (wasā’il), and the legal maxim states: “Means take the ruling of their objectives” (الوسائل لها أحكام المقاصد). Therefore, forming a new league is not automatically ḥarām. If its purpose is genuine reform (iṣlāḥ), strengthening Islamic leadership, improving scholarship, and serving the Muslim community without hostility or rebellion, then it may be permissible. However, if it is motivated by rivalry, ego, political ambition, or public delegitimization of existing scholars, then it becomes blameworthy and sinful due to the harm it produces.

If the existing league established in 1964 is underperforming, Sharīʿah does not teach that separation is the first solution. The prophetic method begins with sincere advice (naṣīḥah), consultation (shūrā), internal reform, accountability, and reconciliation. Allah says: “The believers are but brothers, so reconcile between your brothers” (49:10). Only when sincere reform efforts have been exhausted and serious harm persists may restructuring be considered—and even then, it must be done carefully, respectfully, and with the intention of preserving unity, not creating permanent fragmentation.

The likely dangers of unmanaged division are serious. Fragmentation of religious authority may confuse the masses regarding fatwā and communal decisions such as Ramadan and Eid. Public rivalry among scholars may weaken trust in religious leadership, especially among youth. Political interference may increase, and external forces may exploit internal weakness. History consistently shows that when scholars divide openly, the Ummah becomes institutionally weak and secular influence expands.

The correct Islamic path is reform without schism, accountability without humiliation, and renewal without rebellion. Both the existing and new bodies should prioritize dialogue, transparency, consultation, and possible cooperation or merger. Leadership in Islam is an amānah (trust), not an honor or title. The Prophet ﷺ warned that leadership is a responsibility that may become regret on the Day of Judgment for those who misuse it.

In conclusion, forming a new league is not inherently prohibited, but its ruling depends on intention, method, and outcome. If it strengthens Islam while preserving unity, it may be permissible. If it deepens division and weakens the Ummah, it contradicts the higher objectives of Sharīʿah. The scholars of South-West Nigeria must remember that the Ummah today needs cooperation, wisdom, and collective strength more than multiplied institutions and divided voices. May Allah unite their hearts and protect the Muslim community from fitnah.