Allamin Foundation organizes deradicalization training for Islamic scholars, preachers in Maiduguri
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
In a bid to promote peace and reconciliation in Borno State, the Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development has organized a one-day training workshop for 10 Deradicalization and Rehabilitation Islamic Scholars and Preachers.
The training, held on Sunday at the Hajja Mangal Memorial Hall, Allamin Foundation Office, Giwa Barrack Maiduguri, aimed to equip the scholars and preachers with the necessary skills to deradicalize and rehabilitate repentant insurgents who have returned to their communities and ancestral homes.
The training was part of the project activity organized by the Allamin Foundation to strengthen the capacities of stakeholders and participants for transitional justice and reconciliation in Borno State. The project is supported by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
In her opening remarks, Hajiya Hamsatu Allamin, Executive Director of the Allamin Foundation, emphasized the importance of the training, stating: “This training is crucial in our efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Borno State.
Hajiya Allamin said the training seeks to advocate for the integration and acceptance of repentant Boko Haram sect members and deradicalized individuals associated with deradicalization.
She added that the Foundation has successfully trained and rehabilitated over 120 deradicalized women and girls, empowering them with skills acquisition trainings in various skills and entrepreneurship. The foundation is now tasking the 10 selected Islamic scholars and preachers to continue this important work and promote peaceful reintegration.”
According to her, the ten Islamic scholars and preachers, drawn from four Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno State, namely Mafa, MMC, Jere, and Konduga LGAs, participated in the training. The selection of participants was based on their commitment to deradicalization efforts and their influence in their respective communities.
The training covered various topics, including Islamic history, knowledge, and preaching, as well as deradicalization techniques and strategies.
The facilitator, Sheikh Ali Ibrahim Mustapha, emphasized the importance of understanding the root causes of radicalization and the role of Islamic scholars and preachers in preventing and countering violent extremism.
Sheikh Mustapha, therefore, urged Muslim communities to reject ignorance, illiteracy, and wrongdoing, and instead, embrace righteousness, fear of God, and uphold the law. He emphasized the importance of stopping evil and devilish acts, being law-abiding, respecting community leaders and elders, and following Islamic obligations and doctrines as a way of life.