The Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo, has urged worshippers to avoid indecent dressing, particularly dreadlocks, plaited hairstyles, earrings and tattoos among men, during congregational prayers.
A spokesperson for the imam, Oyekolade Sodiq, said in a statement on Saturday that the announcement was intended as a note of caution and a call for greater awareness of the sanctity, dignity and decorum befitting the House of Allah.
“Concerns were raised about certain practices, including inappropriate or immodest dressing, the wearing of earrings by men, particular hairstyles such as dreadlocks, the display of tattoos, and the use of mobile telephones during Jumu‘ah prayers and sermons.
“These matters were mentioned to encourage reflection, restraint and compliance with the standards of Islamic propriety and the established expectations of the mosque. In particular, the use of mobile telephones during the Friday sermon and prayers can distract worshippers, undermine concentration and detract from the solemnity of the occasion,” the statement said.
Mr Sodiq clarified that the announcement should not be interpreted as a directive to exclude any Muslim from the mosque or to shut its doors against anyone seeking to worship Allah.
He explained, “The mosque occupies a position of profound spiritual significance in Islam. It is a place of worship, humility, reflection, moral refinement and communal fellowship. Consequently, every worshipper is enjoined to approach it with due reverence, observing the appropriate standards of cleanliness, decent dressing, modesty and good conduct.”
Noting that Islam places considerable emphasis on sincere counsel, wisdom and compassionate engagement, Mr Sodiq said Allah instructs the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to invite people to the way of the Lord with wisdom and good instruction (Qur’an 16:125).
“The Prophet also taught that religion is sincere counsel. Accordingly, any caution issued by the mosque authorities should be understood within this broader Islamic framework of moral responsibility, mutual respect and constructive correction,” the statement added.
He appealed to all congregants to receive the announcement in its proper spirit, urging them to exercise restraint, dress modestly, maintain decorum, avoid unnecessary distractions during religious services, and respect the rules and guidance of the mosque authorities.