Shaykh Ahmad Dhikrullah’s calls for repentance at Hijrah Mukhayam 2024

The day that ends the year is an important milestone, marking the culmination of wins and worries for every human. It is a ritual for most to seek solace—thanking and praying for a better year ahead. At the Hijrah Mukhayam 2024 Closing Programme which was held at Al Haqdeen International Islamic Centre, headquarter situated at Orile Iyanu, Ikumapayi, Olodo, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria on December 31, 2024 had in attendance more than twenty thousand people. The fearless Founder and Chief Imam of the Al Haqdeen International Islamic Society, Shaykh Ahmad Dhikrullah, fervently called for repentance.

The Imam urged the gathered faithfuls to reflect on their actions, highlighting the inevitable consequences of human behavior. Addressing Nigerians with existential rhetoric, he posed deep, thought-provoking questions about individual and collective shortcomings. Shaykh Ahmad also referred to as Agbara Je T’oloun emphasized that the current adversities in the nation are neither solely the government’s fault nor acts of divine wrath. Instead, he likened these challenges to karma—the natural outcome of human choices.

In his compelling lecture, he questioned whether it is the president or governor who directly kills people, pointing instead to societal failings and the evil deeds of individuals that result in the nation’s hardships. Shaykh Ahmad candidly criticized the undue reverence of wealth and the wealthy, asserting that this mindset neglects God. The Imam called on all Nigerians to turn back to God with humility and tears of repentance. He pointed out that the phenomenon of wealth-driven emigration, popularly known as “Japa,” demonstrates that even affluence cannot guarantee salvation. This, he explained, underscores the infinite power of God and the finite capabilities of man.

In a profound moment of reflection, Shaykh Ahmad asked, “If God is not merciful, why does the sun still shine? Why does the air still flow?” He urged the audience to perceive these as signs of God’s boundless mercy, despite humanity’s failings. Quoting the Holy Quran, he reminded all that, “God’s hand is not too short to save, nor His ears too dull to hear,” affirming God’s readiness to forgive and save, regardless of the magnitude of sins committed.

The Imam further criticized societal vices, questioning, “Was it the president who stole the iron used to demarcate the Lagos-Ibadan expressway?” He stressed that many of the nation’s challenges stem from individual failings rather than government incompetence alone. He emphasized that humanity’s unclean hands, indifference, and lack of fear of God are the real causes of societal decay.

Concluding the session, the Imam led a heartfelt call to prayer, seeking God’s forgiveness and mercy. He reminded the faithful that God’s power can remove any hindrance to success if humanity genuinely repents and submits to Him.

The Hijrah Mukhayam, an annual event organized by the Al Haqdeen International Islamic Society at the close of each year, remains a powerful call to spiritual closeness, introspection, and repentance.