A general description of the formation and activities of Islamic <i>Da^cwah</i> groups in Nigeria

Abstract

Da‘wah is an instrument par excellence for the spread of Islam and reformation of the society. Therefore Da^cwah is the main duty of all Prophets of Allah. The Islamic terminology Da‘wah is a complex subject which accounts for the various exegetical explanation of its contextual and conceptual meaning and application. It is also accorded different methodologies and approaches throughout the ages, particularly in recent times. Thus, many Muslim Scholars argue that Da^cwah is a collective duty of all Muslims. Indeed, Da^cwah under the auspices of a structural group began in Nigeria as a result of secularisation of the Nigerian system and some modern trends. Furthermore, some of the Da^cwah groups have made tremendous contributions to Islam and Nigeria but the activities of others have been a matter of concern to many Muslims as their activities became a seed of discord amongst Muslims. In view of this, the paper examines the circumstances that often prompt the formation of structural Da‘wah groups in Nigeria. It also provides an insight into networking information related to the legitimacy of the forming structural Da^cwah group, its different kinds, aims, activities, achievements and problems. The paper concludes that Da‘wah is a personal and collective obligation; alas, some Muslims appear callous towards this duty.