Chief Imam of Hadejia Emirate, Sheikh Yusuf Abdulrahman Zakariyya’u, has issued a strong warning to Muslims in Jigawa State about the dangers of backbiting and spreading rumours, stressing that such behaviours carry severe consequences in this life and the hereafter.

Speaking at the fifth Ramadan Public Lecture organized by the Jigawa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Dutse, Sheikh Zakariyya’u highlighted that Ghiba (speaking ill of someone behind their back) and Namima (spreading false information) are destructive practices.

“Ghiba and Namima are like cancer; they eat away at society and destroy relationships,” he said, referencing the Qur’an and Hadith.

The cleric noted that envy, anger, and the desire for social acceptance often drive people to engage in these harmful acts, sometimes unknowingly.

He warned that such behaviour could lead to social isolation, broken relationships, physical harm, and even violence.

Sheikh Zakariyya’u urged Muslims to exercise restraint, speak only when necessary, and always ensure their words are truthful.

He stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary curiosity into others’ lives and cautioned against the misuse of social media as a platform for harmful speech.

“We must be mindful of our online activities and ensure we do not contribute to Ghiba and Namima,” he added.

Quoting Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), he explained, “Do you know what is backbiting? It is saying something about your brother that he would dislike.”

He encouraged Muslims to seek forgiveness for past transgressions and commit to promoting peace and unity in society.

The Permanent Secretary, Office of the Jigawa State Head of Service, Mr Abdullahi Sa’id, affirmed that the government may organize social media sensitization programs for appointees to encourage responsible online conduct.

NUJ Jigawa State Chairman, Comrade Ismail Dutse, praised the lecture for its timely message, aiming to educate Muslims about the social and spiritual risks of gossip during Ramadan.