Islamic Cleric Adamu Calls for Ban of GMOs in Nigeria

In recent times, the debate surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has sparked controversy and ethical concerns worldwide. Sheikh Kabiru Adamu, a prominent figure from the al-Hikma Islamic Foundation for Justice, has taken a firm stance against GMOs, calling for their prohibition in Nigeria. Citing religious beliefs and ethical considerations, Sheikh Adamu asserts that GMOs go against the teachings of Islam and the will of Allah.

Quoting from the Quran to support his position, Sheikh Adamu emphasized the importance of preserving nature and adhering to the natural order ordained by Allah. In Surah Ar-Rum, verse 30:41, the Quran states, “Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness].” Sheikh Adamu interprets this verse as a warning against tampering with the natural world, as GMOs are seen as a form of corruption that disrupts the balance of nature.

Furthermore, Sheikh Adamu labels GMOs as “Haram” in Islam, meaning forbidden or unlawful. Quoting from Surah Al-Ma’idah, verse 5:90, which states, “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” He draws parallels between the prohibition of intoxicants and GMOs, suggesting that both are deemed impure and contrary to the teachings of Islam.

Sheikh Adamu goes on to criticize agencies that advocate for the use of GMOs, accusing them of serving the interests of malevolent forces. Drawing on Quranic teachings regarding the influence of evil, he references Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 2:268: “The devil promises you poverty and orders you to immorality, while Allah promises you forgiveness from Him and bounty. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.” Sheikh Adamu suggests that the promotion of GMOs by certain entities is a manifestation of the devil’s deception, aimed at harming Muslim communities and undermining their well-being.

Moreover, Sheikh Adamu raised concerns about the alleged intentions behind the development of GMOs, asserting that they are designed to diminish Muslim populations, particularly in the Northern regions of Nigeria. Quoting from Surah Al-Anfal, verse 8:30, “And [remember, O Muhammad], when those who disbelieved plotted against you to restrain you or kill you or evict you [from Makkah]. But they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.” He warns against the hidden agenda of those promoting GMOs, suggesting that their ultimate goal is to weaken Muslim communities and disrupt the natural order established by Allah.

Sheikh Kabiru Adamu’s call for a ban on GMOs in Nigeria reflects a deeply rooted concern for the ethical implications of tampering with nature and the potential harm posed to Muslim communities. By invoking Quranic verses and teachings, he highlighted the importance of upholding Islamic values and principles in the face of technological advancements that may conflict with religious beliefs.

Islamic Cleric Adamu Calls for Ban of GMOs in Nigeria

Christmas: Celebrate within your capacity, avoid competition – Cleric Advises

Pastor Abiodun Solomon of the Christ Glory Church, Ilorin, has advised Christians to celebrate Christmas within their financial capacities to avoid running into debts.
Solomon gave the advice in Ilorin on Saturday in an interview with journalists.

He said that there was no need to engage in any competition while celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

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According to him, many people try to compete with their neighbours or friends in terms of spending at Christmas.

”Celebrate within your capacity, don’t try to impress anybody.

“Don’t involve yourself in any debt in an effort to celebrate Christmas.

”You can celebrate the birth of Christ decently without extravagant lifestyles or lavishing of resources.

”Jesus Christ was never in competition with anybody; so, you are not expected to trouble your minds.

”Celebrate within your limits, with pure heart, and Jesus will accept your celebration,” he said.

He also advised Christians to embrace charity and support the needy.

Christmas: Celebrate within your capacity, avoid competition – Cleric Advises

2023 Thanksgiving: Nigerian Church in U.S. distributes 1,000 turkeys

A Nigerian church in New York, Christ Apostolic Church, under Goke Food Pantry, has distributed over 1,000 turkeys and food items to some families to celebrate the 2023 Thanksgiving Day.

Thanksgiving Day, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, is an annual national holiday in the United States to celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the past year.

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In a statement by the Secretary, Christ Apostolic Church Goke Food Pantry, Deaconess Olufunke Obadina said the church has kept the tradition of supporting families during the Thanksgiving season for 10 years.

“Christ Apostolic Church (first in the Americas) Goke Food Pantry in Brooklyn, New York is widely known for its yearly free turkey meat giveaway to celebrate Thanksgiving.

“They gave more than 1,000 turkeys to the public on Saturday, Nov. 18.

“This turkey giveaway is co-sponsored by the church and dedicated partners.

“The crowd that showed up to receive this turkey was unimaginable but to God be the glory, no one left without getting something,’’ Obadina said.

According to her, the food pantry recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in a community health fair.

She said that the Mayor of New York City deemed Goke Food Panty worthy of receiving a proclamation for its impact in the community feeding of the less privileged.

“This recognition is one of the towering recognitions that can be conferred on a non-profit organisation such as Goke Food Pantry.

“The pantry’s mission is to halt food insecurity while providing nutritious food to the public. God be our help.’’

A large crowd waiting to receive turkeys.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Goke Food Pantry (GFP) distributed 750 turkeys to the needy in 2022 to mark Thanksgiving Day.

Named after the late Rev. Dr. Adegoke Oyedeji, Goke Food Pantry opened its doors to serve the Kensington community in Brooklyn on June 8, 2013.

The initiative was initially funded and staffed by members of the church.

Since then, GFP has expanded to include volunteers from the community and has partnered with other organisations to provide food to those in need.

2023 Thanksgiving: Nigerian Church in U.S. distributes 1,000 turkeys