Yoruba Muslim Scholars Condemn Derogatory Remarks Against Prophet’s Companions

The Yoruba Muslim Scholars Association has strongly condemned recent derogatory remarks made by the Director of Markaz At-Ta’lim Al-‘Arabi wal-Islami, Agege, against some of the revered Companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

In a statement issued on Thursday August 21, 2025, the Association expressed “utmost clarity and candor” in rejecting the views expressed by the Markaz Director, particularly those targeting the first Caliph, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA), and other esteemed Companions including Umar ibn al-Khattab, Abu Hurayrah, Abu Musa al-Ash’ari, and Amr ibn al-As (may Allah be pleased with them all).

It reaffirmed that the companions remain an integral part of Islamic faith and history, noting that their virtues are firmly established in the Qur’an and authentic Prophetic traditions. It cited Qur’an 9:40, which references Abu Bakr as the prophet’s companion in the cave during the Hijrah, underscoring his elevated status in Islam.

“No Muslim of sound belief doubts that Abu Bakr and Umar are among those promised Paradise,” the statement read, adding that the criticisms directed at them “often rely on the opinions of extremist Shi’ite Rafidites, orientalists, and Arab writers influenced by Western methodologies.”

The Yoruba Muslim Scholars Association also reminded the public that such views are contrary to the consensus of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama’ah, the four leading Imams of Islamic jurisprudence, and even contradict the approach of the late Shaykh Adam Abdullah Al-Ilory, founder of Markaz, who is widely respected across Nigeria and beyond.

The body declared its complete disavowal of the Markaz Director’s remarks and urged Muslims to uphold the tradition of honoring all the noble Companions, praying for them, and refraining from mockery or disparagement.

“The correct path of a righteous Muslim is to love, praise, and respect all the Companions,” the statement concluded, while sending prayers upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his family, and his Companions.