Owerri, Imo State – Sheikh Suleiman Njoku, the chief imam of Imo State and chairman of the League of Imams, has shed light on the difficulties experienced by Muslims of Igbo descent in the southeastern region of Nigeria.
In an interview with The Punch, Sheikh Njoku explained that the challenges are rooted in cultural differences and misunderstandings about Islam, exacerbated by the ongoing security crisis in northern Nigeria. He emphasized that the actions of Boko Haram and other violent groups have shaped negative perceptions of Islam among the Igbo community, leading to discrimination against local Muslims.
Social and Religious Challenges
Njoku expressed concern over how Igbo Muslims often face rejection and skepticism. “Even when someone converts to Islam, they are called for meetings and warned against bringing violence into the community,” he explained. The imam highlighted how Muslim women also face harassment for wearing hijabs, as they are sometimes associated with extremist ideologies.
He added, “Our women fear being attacked for wearing hijabs and are labeled as Boko Haram. Additionally, it is difficult for Muslims to secure jobs in the region, with some being told to seek employment in the North.”
Another issue raised by Njoku is the reluctance of Igbo families to allow marriages with Muslims, which further isolates Igbo Muslims socially.
Growth of Islam in Imo Despite Challenges
Despite these difficulties, Sheikh Njoku highlighted the growing presence of Islam in Imo State. He praised Governor Hope Uzodimma for supporting the Muslim community by sponsoring over 200 Muslims to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in 2023. “Governor Uzodimma is a just leader who supports us without discrimination,” Njoku said.
He also noted that the Muslim community is advocating for better access to mosques, Islamic education, and resources, including the establishment of Arabic schools. Refuting the notion that Igbo Muslims convert for financial reasons, Njoku emphasized that their faith is driven by genuine spiritual conviction.
Promoting Religious Understanding
The chief imam called for more tolerance and understanding between religious groups in the region. He stressed that true Islam promotes peace and mutual respect, countering misconceptions that associate the religion with violence.
In 2022, the Igbo Muslim Da’wah Group achieved a milestone by translating the Qur’an into the Igbo language to foster better understanding of Islam within the community. Mallam Muhammed Muritala Chukwuemeka, one of the group’s leaders, described Islam as a peaceful faith that condemns violence and seeks unity.
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