A group of Islamic scholars in Zamfara State has raised the alarm over what it describes as a serious moral and spiritual decline under the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal Dare.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Zamfara Islamic Scholars Forum, led by its Chairman, Malam Ibrahim Yakubu Gusau, condemned the recent use of the Government House in Gusau for what it labelled “immoral festivities”.
The event, which reportedly featured performances by popular entertainers from within and outside Nigeria, was described as “a celebration that symbolised the dismantling of Islamic law in our state”.
“Zamfara once stood as a beacon of Islamic discipline and values,” the statement read.
“Today, the same Government House once known as the ‘House of Shari’ah’ is now a venue for musical performances and debauchery.”
The scholars expressed concern that the event occurred amid a worsening security crisis in the state, calling it a “deeply troubling sign” of moral collapse in governance.
They reminisced about a time, particularly under former Governor Bello Matawalle’s tenure, when the influence of Shari’ah was said to be deeply embedded in public life.
According to them, the then-governor took deliberate steps to integrate Islamic values into state governance.
“Governor Matawalle established a dedicated office for Islamic scholars within the Government House, equipped with essential books and resources to support policy through Islamic principles,” the group recalled.
However, the current administration, they allege, has reversed those efforts.
The office for Islamic scholars has reportedly been dismantled and repurposed as the office of the First Lady, while religious advisors were removed.
“This is not just an erosion of values but a direct attack on Islamic institutions,” the statement added.
“Even individuals of questionable character are now being rewarded with government appointments.”
The group also criticised the governor for what they described as hypocrisy, accusing him of previously attacking religious scholars for their silence under past administrations, while allegedly overseeing an administration that disregards Islamic values.
“O Allah, do not punish us for the sins and failures of our leaders,” they pleaded.
“We ask for lasting peace and the return of righteous leadership — not just in Zamfara, but across Northern Nigeria and the nation at large.”