Renowned Islamic cleric, Professor Sani Rijiyar-Lemu, has cautioned media organizations against excessively publicizing criminal activities, warning that such coverage could encourage others to engage in similar offenses.
Speaking on Monday at the ongoing 2025 Ramadan Tafsir at Gwallaga Mosque in Bauchi, he stressed that giving criminals a platform to narrate their crimes amounts to glorification.”It is now very common to hear or read about victims or culprits of crimes like sodomy, incest, prostitution, and rape on radio, television, or print media, where journalists or security operatives prompt them to give graphic details of their acts,” Rijiyar-Lemu said.
“Publicizing such accounts makes these crimes attractive to some dubious minds, and so, such immoral acts in society will keep increasing.”
He argued that instead of focusing on the crimes themselves, the media should emphasize the punishments criminals face to serve as a deterrent.
He further warned that Islam frowns upon any act that promotes crime, either directly or indirectly.
“Allow the law to take its course, without necessarily publicizing such immoral acts in society,” he advised.
Rijiyar-Lemu also urged media practitioners to exercise restraint in their reporting to avoid incurring divine wrath.
Meanwhile, another cleric, Usman Bambiyo, called on Muslims to intensify prayers for the country’s leadership and overall stability.
Speaking at the conclusion of this year’s Ramadan Tafsir at Rajalussunna, Unguwar Sarakuna, Bauchi, he emphasized the significance of prayer in addressing national challenges.
“As believers, Muslims must recognize the power of prayer in shaping both individual lives and the fate of the nation,” Bambiyo stated, urging the faithful to uphold the lessons of Ramadan throughout the year.