Ibraheem Ladi Amosa
In many Nigerian films, sensitive issues such as religion, gender, culture, and identity often come to
the forefront, sparking public debate. However, filmmakers from both northern and southern regions
frequently perpetuate stereotypes while neglecting more profound, troubling issues that could advance
our nation.
The influence of movies on Islam in Nigeria is significant. Whenever scholars advocate the pure
teachings of Islam, filmmakers undermine them; when scholars tighten a principle, filmmakers loosen
it. We see daily degeneration in our youth as they imitate what they see on screen. As the saying goes,
“A tree is not brought down by the axe but by the termites within.” Our strength as a Muslim
community is eroded not by external adversaries but by internal discord. Within the movie industry,
Muslim actors, actresses, and musicians often prioritize financial gain over their religious duties. Many
are unaware of the Islamic guidelines that govern their profession, and scholars may either ignore or
fear confronting them due to their fame. We must guide them away from un-Islamic practices, so they
can contribute positively to Islam rather than causing harm unknowingly.
Recently, the Muslim community in Nigeria expressed outrage over a film poster showing actresses
robbing a bank while wearing Niqabs. This anti-Muslim film depicts women in niqab wielding
weapons and committing crimes, an overt act of Islamophobia. It is reprehensible and offensive.
Previously, a music video portrayed Fulanis and Muslims as killers and featured women in hijabs
engaging in the notorious ‘Shaku Shaku’ dance. What is the producer’s intention in these portrayals of
Islam?
What actions has the National Films and Videos Censors Board taken to protect Islam? Are there no
Muslims on this board? Are there no Muslims in the movie industry? What is their stance on such
portrayals? Why must Muslims in Nigeria be pushed to the edge before we see respect for our religion?
Furthermore, the most perilous enemy is the one who remains hidden. Disbelief and immoral
behavior often masquerade as religious piety. Tragically, some students from Islamiyya/Arabic schools,
in full Islamic attire, engage in similar behavior under the pretext of celebrating Maolid, graduation,
hijrah, etc. Videos of them dancing provocatively are shared on social media, sometimes even in the
presence of religious scholars. When admonished not to spread mischief, they claim to be
peacemakers. In truth, they are the ones causing mischief, though they fail to recognize it.
The solution is not to condemn our Muslim brothers and sisters in the film industry but to address
their un-Islamic practices. We must build rapport with them, guiding them to contribute positively to
Islam rather than causing unintentional harm. Additionally, we must ensure that anyone—Muslim or
non-Muslim, from Islamic or non-Islamic schools—who misuses Islamic symbols is held accountable.
“The greatest incitement to crime is the hope of escaping punishment.” Let us act with wisdom and
unity to safeguard the sanctity of our faith and community.
Amosa may be reached via [email protected].