17/08/2026
TIJANIYYAH AND THE BIDIAH OF THE MAWLID
Bida Local Government has been passing through a serious setback in terms of insecurity. In response, the government introduced a curfew from 11:00 p.m. until the following morning. This measure has been in place for months, and many residents have welcomed it because it has contributed to restoring peace and protecting lives and property.
Security should be a priority for everyone. Every citizen has the right to live safely, whether Muslim or Christian, and no religious gathering or personal interest should be placed above the safety of the entire community.
Unfortunately, the Tijaniyyah are now reportedly appealing to the Local Government Chairman to lift the curfew so that they can hold their Mawlid celebrations throughout the night.
This raises an important question: Are the Tijaniyyah the only people living in Bida?
If the government introduced the curfew because of insecurity, then every organization, group, and religious community should respect the same security measures. The government has a responsibility to protect the lives and property of all citizens, and religious leaders should cooperate with measures designed to preserve public safety.
The Mawlid is not an obligation upon the Muslims, and the celebration of the Prophet's ﷺ birthday was not practiced by the Prophet ﷺ, his Companions, or the righteous generations that followed them. Therefore, it is especially inappropriate to demand the removal of a security measure established to protect the wider community merely to facilitate an all-night religious celebration.
We should remember that security is for everyone. The safety of Muslims, Christians, children, women, elderly people, business owners, travelers, and every resident of Bida matters.
Let us put the safety and stability of our community first. Religious activities should never become a reason to undermine measures intended to prevent crime and protect innocent lives.
May Allah restore lasting peace and security to Bida, protect its people from criminals and all forms of violence, and guide us all to what is pleasing to Him.
Adam Muhammad Sheshi Assalafi
