An Islamic scholar, Daud Amoo (Alaga), has called on Muslims not to deny themselves some basic needs that would make life conducive for them because they are pious.

Mr Amoo, the chief missioner, Forum for Comparative Sermons, Ibadan, gave the advice at an annual Maolud Nabbiy lecture organised by the Spiritual Household of Maolana Shykh Sa’ad in Ogbomoso on Sunday.

He said some Muslims denied themselves some basic needs of life, while others wore torn or dirty clothes on the ground of being pious, thereby portraying religion in a bad manner.

“Islam is about life fulfilment and not for life denial. Islam does not teach us not to strive for life and appear dirty in society; dressing neatly is part of the teachings of Islam,” he said.

The scholar said Islam does not forbid Muslims from acquiring wealth and seeking western education, but such must be done legitimately with fear of Allah and not through ungodly means.

The scholar urged Muslims to fear Allah, worship him accordingly and constantly pray for Allah’s guidance and protection to overcome life’s challenges.

Mr Amoo advised the politicians not to embezzle public funds and remember that they would account for their deeds on the day of judgment.

In his lecture, Abiodun Aibinu, the vice-chancellor of Summit University, Offa, called on Muslims and Nigerians to adopt a lifestyle that would assist their livelihood in avoiding a midlife crisis.

Mr Aibinu said people must refrain from lifestyles that would negatively affect them as they grow old, urging them to share their feelings with trusted individuals for prompt assistance.

The vice-chancellor further urged Nigerians to upgrade their skills and knowledge to meet the present-day life to avoid being left behind and lost in the labour market.

(NAN)