Fadilatu Sheikh Wasiu Atayese, Chief Missioner of the Jaqmal Muslim Society of Nigeria, has stirred controversy by asserting that smoking cigarettes is not forbidden in Islam and does not invalidate ablution, drawing mixed reactions from the public.
Speaking at a public lecture, the seasoned Islamic scholar emphasized that smoking cigarettes is not prohibited in Islam and can even be enjoyed after performing ablution.
“Smoking cigarettes is not part of what is forbidden in Islam,” said Jaqmal. He added, “Even there is nothing wrong in taking it after performing ablution. It does not invalidate it ”
His statements have since sparked a flurry of debates and comments across various social media platforms.
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Reactions from social media have been swift and varied.
Harlow Ma expressed disbelief, questioning the cleric’s stance on such a contentious issue.
“Smoking cigarettes is not part of what is forbidden in Islam,” said Jaqmal. He added, “Even there is nothing wrong in taking it after performing ablution. It does not invalidate it ”
Abubakar Sadiq criticized the Sheikh’s broader views, citing previous controversies.
“Abajo….no wonder…I have always said this man is under influence of something…na small small, shebi he halalize eating dog, now cigarettes and Igbo, soon, na Oti… just watch and see.”
Meanwhile, Wasiu Balogun, citing experiences from Arab countries, supported the Sheikh’s claims about cigarette usage among Muslims.
“Most of Arab Country will are going some of them smoke cigarettes and after that go to mosque is possible✍️ truth because I’m not living in Nigeria living in one of Arab country and that is how they do as well.”
Mubarak Olayiwola highlighted regional differences in interpretations of Islamic teachings, emphasizing personal experiences and challenges in understanding religious practices.
“Cigarette is not an haram but not in Nigeria. The country where winter 🥶 is so much disturbing are liable to cigarette just to calm themselves… but overdose is not allowed 🚫. Just to cool one self down … God knows best.”
Tobi Vibes said, “Yes na Where Islam was brought to us they practiced it,na we wey they borrowed us the religion they take am personal with many lies,naso them decieve us say dog na Haram until I saw it in Quran that is not Haram, all those Alfa oloriibu wey they hide something for us inside Quran just because they don’t like it.”
Musbaudeen Oladimeji added his perspectives, echoing sentiments about differing interpretations among religious leaders.
“Alfa jacmal nibo lotun jasi yi, se iwo nmugbo abi siga, esinmi wonranwonran yi te ba mo ohun te so mo, odara kefi ete oke bo ti isale ko panu mo.”
Daniel Itunuoluwa said, “He’s very right because I’ve equally seen an Alfa that condemn alcoholic drink but confirm it that igbo Indian hemp is just a perfume.”