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Are you being overwhelmed by the staunchness of the enmity of your enemies, the rivalry of your rivals and the opposition of your opponents? Do you wish to learn how to convert an enemy to a friend, a negative force to a positive one? You’ve got some invaluable lessons to learn from the following Quranic verses if you care to enroll in their school! Allah says: “And good and evil are not alike. Repel evil with that which is best. And lo, he between whom and thyself was enmity will become as though he were a warm friend.   None is given (this virtue) except those who are patient, and none is given it except a possessor of great virtues.” (Qur’an, 41:35-36) Converting Foes to Friends – Dissecting the Quranic Principles First Principle: Realizing Good and Evil are not Alike The Quranic statement, ‘Good and evil are not alike,’ infuses a powerful stimulus to our moral conscience, sense and consciousness to objectively engage in comparative valuation and evaluation of the intrinsic aesthetic quality, value and utility latent in every reality, particularly, good or evil. We are here implicitly enjoined to evaluate, appreciate and imbibe the goodness of every good, on the one hand; and to assess, recognize and jettison the badness of every evil, on the other hand. Similar expressions for comparison are often met with in the Quran. Allah says: ‘the blind and the seeing, the light and darkness, the heat and the shade, and the living and the dead, respectively, are neither alike nor equal.’ [Quran, 35: 20-23] Particularly, regarding comparison between good and evil, it is interesting to note that, in all its ramifications, good represents the Will of God, Who is the Absolute Good and Ultimate Goodness; while evil, on the other hand, is the will and manifestation of the devil. Good represents light and positivity; evil symbolizes darkness and negativity. Thus, to be good is to be godly, positive and creative; while to be bad is to be devilish, negative and destructive. Hence, what is perhaps intended by this Qur’anic axiological appeal is that the understanding gained from such a comparative study of good and evil should inspire and fascinate our human logic, reason and rationality to begin to imbibe, practice and represent goodness in all ramifications and, when encountered with evil, to repel the latter with the former. Second Principle: Repelling Evil with that which is Best If you’ve been searching for a viable approach to quench the fire of hostilities and establish peaceful and amiable relationship, then, you’ve, finally, arrived at your destination here. The Qur’anic instruction: ‘repel evil with that which is best,’ proffers the most viable principle of human relationship and world order for eradicating all forms of hostilities, rivalries and conflicts and establishing in their stead peaceful and amiable relations at all inter-personal, inter-communal, inter-tribal and international levels.  Indeed, as Hadrat Mirza Bashirud-deen Mahmud Ahmad [ra] succinctly maintained, this Qur’anic moral imperative ‘points to a very noble principle inculcated by Islam for the moral progress of a Muslim and also for the establishment and preservation of peace and harmony among individuals and nations.’ [1] More so, analyzing the various significations the expression: repel evil with that which is best, could have, he writes: 1] … repel evil with good, which means that …. do good deeds so that men may imitate their example and forsake evil… 2] The words repel evil with good also mean that men of understanding do “good” deeds with the object of removing “evil” i.e. they neither insist on retaliation regardless of the nature of the offence or the suitability of the punishment nor do they persist in unqualified forgiveness but follow the course best suited for the eradication evil. They resort to retaliation if it serves the purpose and to forgiveness if forgiveness is calculated to bring about the desired result… 3] The words repel evil with good, may also mean that they do not meet “evil” with “evil”, but always observe justice and never forsake the path of equity and justice in dealing with evil.” [2] Furthermore, while pin-pointing the three courses of reaction to evil as prescribed by the Quran, namely, to react to evil with equivalent evil i.e. equitable retaliation, or to forgive evil and or to pay evil with kind return, he rationalizes that “He may return evil to the extent and measure of the injury he has received or he may punish the evil-doer if he is in a position to do so but the punishment should, under no circumstances, exceed legitimate bounds. Moreover, the punishment is to be resorted to only if this course is calculated to produce wholesome effect upon the aggressor party. This is the significance of the words, the recompense of evil is evil like it (Quran, 42:41). The Qur’an, however, prefers and recommends that forgiveness should be shown to the evil-doer. This is the meaning of the words, but whoever forgives and amends, his reward is with Allah (Quran, 42:41). But a Muslim who has attained to a very high moral standard is enjoined not only to forgive the person who has done him some wrong but also to do him a good turn in addition. This is the significance of the verse under comment and this is the high moral standard of conduct expected of a Muslim by Islam. Islam enjoins the repelling of evil with evil or with forgiveness or with a kind return, which of the three courses is calculated to conduce to the moral good of the wrong-doer, or the good of the injured person or to the good of human society at large.”  [3] Converting Enemies to Warm Friends: The Prophetic Examples At this juncture, it would be fascinating to take a flight to the wonderments of the Prophetic examples of converting foes to friends through the powerful act of repaying evil with good. Prophet Yusuf (as) Forgives Enemies and Reaches Plateau of Self-realization Our first depot of soul-inspiring narratives revolves around that famous Biblical and Qurnanic protagonist-prophet – Yusuf [Joseph] (as). Reading the Qur’anic narration of the Prophet Yusuf’s [as] deeply soul-inspiring life account, one is

Members of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria recently converged at its National Headquarters, Ojokoro, Lagos to listen and reflect on the exemplary characters of the Holy prophet, in commemoration of 2020 Seeratun Nabiyy. The day will forever remain in History for all Muslims around the world as it was a remarkable day when the Holy prophet (saw) was born in 570 in the city of Mecca by Hazrat Aminat bint wahb after the demise of Abdullah ibn Abd al-muttalib his father. More than thousands of years after the demise of this noble being, Muslims around the world still love, believe, pray and celebrate him. The Ahmadiyya Muslim community, on annual basis, celebrate the blessed day by discussing the exemplary lifestyle of the Holy prophet to remind members of the beautiful teachings, exceptional qualities and characters of the Holy prophet. The Missionary in charge, Maulana Afzaal Ahmad Rauf who was the chairman of the program reminded the gathering about the beautiful lessons in the lifestyle of the Holy Prophet which are abound in the Holy Qur’an and Hadith. He enjoined Muslims to emulate the characters of Prophet Muhammad which centered around kindness, unity, love, brotherhood, good neighborliness, simplicity, honesty and regular prayers. Missionary Abdul Haadi Babarinde of the National Headquarters discussed on the topic: “Relationship and Love of the Holy Prophet(saw) for Allah the Almighty”.  He said the Holy prophet expressed his love for Allah through obedience, supplications and he demonstrated the love in His practices and way of life. He advised all Muslims to develop true love for Prophet Muhammad and follow his excellent virtues.  He said it is the best way of showing love for Almighty Allah. Another lecture titled: “Exemplary Characters of Holy Prophet (SAW) in his youthful age” was delivered by Maulvi Okubena Nuruddeen.  He reminded all members of the Holy prophets(saw)  early life, His circle of friends,  and His virtues and manners, he states “The Holy prophet himself told us to make judicious use of our youthful age before we attain old age because anything achieved at the youthful age will go a long way  in having impact on our old age’’ Also, a poem culled from Qaseedah written by the promised messiah (founder of Ahmadiyya Community) in praise of the Holy prophet was chanted by young members of the body. The poem reflects the love the promised messiah had for the Holy Prophet. Over 300 members and non-members of the body attended the august event.

As Amir Visits Olubadan, Ataoja, Akirun, OthersAddresses members on unity during a 5-day working tour As the leadership of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria edges closer to the formal opening of the Minaret International University, Ikirun Osun State, the Executive Governor of the State, Alhaji Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola has reiterated his support and full readiness of the State to host the University.Governor Oyetola gave the assurance during the official visit of the National Head (Amir) Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Barr. Alatoye Folorunso Azeez and other top members of the National Executive to the Governor in Osogbo last weekend.The Governor commended the efforts of the Ahmadiyya Community towards the growth and development of Western education in the country and maintained that the establishment of a tertiary institution in the state will cap the numerous achievements of the organization in the education sector. He expressed his delight over the choice of location and promised that his administration will continue to support the University Project and other Muslim Organizations in the State.The National Head appreciated the continuous support received from the State Government on the project and vowed that the University will be second to none in the State as it will be free of cultism and other societal ills. He said the University is expected to produce quality and well-groomed graduates with a vast knowledge of Science and Technology.Barrister Alatoye formally invited the governor to the official opening of the University and also extended the 2021 International Conference of Ahmadiyya Community invitation to the governor.The Amir who was on a 5-day official tour to Oyo and the Osun States respectively also paid courtesy visits to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I; Ataoja of Osogbo Land, Oba Jimoh Abidemi Oyetunji Olanipekun Larooye II; Akirun of Ikirun Land, Oba Olayiwola Olawale Adedeji II; Alademore of Ibokun Land, Oba Festus Kayode Awogboro; Olunisa of Inisa Land, Oba Joseph Oladunjoye Moronfolu Oyedele Fasikun II JP; Apetu of Ipetu Land, Oba Olude Fatile; Alase of Ilase Ijesha Land, Oba Jimoh Isiaka Adeshina Ajabiolu II.In his address at the palaces, Barrister Alatoye thanked the traditional rulers for accommodating and ensuring good neighborliness with members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in their respective domains. He also conveyed the peace message of the spiritual leader of the Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad(May Allah be his Helper).The Amir equally enjoined the rulers to use their good offices to call on the government to ensure the right to life, freedom of speech, provision of social amenities to the populace as well as ensuring peace and justice without any discrimination.The traditional rulers were also presented with some of the organization’s literature including the Holy Quran followed by group photographs. MTA Facility Needed At The Palace – Olubadan: The Olubadan of Ibadan Land, in his remarks, stated that the visit of the leadership of Ahmadiyya Community was timely and promised to engage the Oyo State government on the security of lives and properties in Ibadan and Oyo State generally. He further specifically requested for the installation of Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA) facility at his palace in order to be more enlightened on the activities of Ahmadiyya Community globally. Oba Saliu Adetunji pledged to always honour the invitation of the Community to its programmes. “World Crises and Pathway to Peace” template will be helpful in Osun State – Ataoja Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, the Ataoja of Osogbo has challenged the leadership of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to produce a book similar to “World Crises and Pathway to Peace” for the main purpose of tackling the lingering crises in Osun State. The traditional ruler described representatives of the Muslim Community as true ambassadors of Islam who serve humanity without segregation nor discrimination. He equally tagged himself as a man of justice and truthfulness who cannot be lured into dishonesty. The Book “Essence of Islam” a source of guidance – Oba of Obokun Ijesha Land Oba Festus Awogboro of Obokun Ijesha Land admitted that one of the Jama’at’s literature titled “Essence of Islam” presented to him by the immediate national head of the organization, Prof. Mashhud Adenrele Fashola has been a source of guidance to his decision on the throne. Commissioning of Oja Oba Market, Ibokun At the request of the traditional ruler, the Amir formally commissioned the Oja-Oba Market at Ibokun and educated marketers on the dos and donts of a market place using Medinah Market as a templateBarrister Alatoye said: “It’s Almighty Allah’s instruction to establish a market. You should not cheat nor play pranks on marketers. Do your marketing rightly and sell only Halal products. Kindly guide against market manipulation, the market management team must embrace peace and justice.”The Amir later led special prayers on the establishment of the market which, hitherto, had not been successful. Amir addresses members on unity The Amir enjoined all members of the organization in all the branches visited to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence among themselves, thereby maintaining their status as true reformers.“There can be no unity and cohesion where there is hatred, for one another. Let us respect each other with humility let us embrace a positive mind-set; justice and peace. Opinions of everyone must be respected and more importantly, let’s be submissive to the constituted authority and institution of Khalifah,” Barrister Alatoye submitted. School foundation laying at Ajoda As a pioneer founder of Islamic and Western Education and humanitarian services in Nigeria, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria plans to establish primary and secondary schools as well as a medical center in Ajoda Town along the Ibadan – Ife Expressway, Oyo State. The foundation bricks of a block of classrooms were thus laid by the national head during the tour. The team thereafter inspected the 10 acres of land belonging to the Muslim Community. Other members of the National Executive that accompanied the Amir include the Missionary Incharge, Maulana Afzaal Ahmad Rauf; Naib (Deputy) Amir, Finance & Administration, Engr. Mufadhil Bankole; the General Secretary, Alhaji Abbas O. Iromini; the National

Most secondary schools in Nigeria were only a couple of days to the beginning of their second term examination for the 2019/2020 academic session when the federal government declared a national health emergency and locked down the whole country. Even the schools that had begun as at the time had only written a few papers. What then started like a few weeks’ precautionary step eventually ran for six (6) consecutive months. Secondary school students eventually lost the examination week of the second term, a full (3rd) term, and a few more weeks in the first term of a new session (2020/2021) due to the #EndSARS protest and the nationwide destruction that trailed it. While the coronavirus ravaged the world, the consequent multifaceted national and individual losses for many citizens can only be imagined. The rest, they say, is history. At about the same time, the university teachers embarked on indefinite strike action over an unfulfilled agreement the federal government had with their union, Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) way back in 2009. That too sent university students back home. They were to remain at home for the next nine straight months – that is an equivalence of time to finish a Master’s degree in some universities. The ASUU/FG feud was only resolved in the last week of December 2020. As the celebrated resumption coincides with the Yuletide, effective resumption was expected in the first week of January until the Federal government ordered all schools to close down until January 18, 2021, for it to observe the spread of COVID-19 and decide what it would do next. This was the same pattern the first lockdown extended over a six-month period as the government continued to extend the period until well into September 2020. With the now widely-known reality about COVID-19, locking up schools on the pretext of a COVID-19 pandemic is, in my opinion, rather counterintuitive. The largest gathering of people – educated and uneducated – is not found in a hall or a school; it is found in the market. Not even the largest political rally can match the size of a city market. So, if markets can open, without any visible prevention protocols, and yet with only a few or no incidents of spread, it is not out of place to suggest that schools can safely open, especially with all the prevention protocols that are already in all schools and which can even be upgraded as the Health Ministry may instruct. There is no arguing the fact that schools are more organized than markets. It is also much easier to explain the dangers and prevention of any diseases/viruses to students and subsequently gain their understanding and cooperation than it is with the largely less educated folks in the marketplaces. Even where students seem uncooperative, they can be whipped into line without much ado. We have already been informed that this coronavirus will be around for a long period of time. It is also a fact that medical researchers and pharmaceutical companies have since been working tirelessly to find effective drugs for viral infection. Pfizer/BioNtech and AstraZeneca-Oxford have already produced and got their respective vaccines approved for mass production and distribution. Given this fact, there is no point to further paralyze the academic system which was probably the greatest loser in the year 2020. Schools – arguably the most adaptable to change – cannot be held as the most vulnerable and therefore locked up purportedly to contain the spread of a disease which, according to experts, would not go anytime soon. This is especially instructive considering the fact that the vast majority of students in this country still receive their education through a face-to-face medium. Our school system still relies much on the brick and mortar classroom.  Even the higher institutions are yet to move close to the real digital classroom. What passes for digital integration in our schools is mere online registration for courses, school fee payment, and the download of some texts. The core of teaching and learning is still fully face-to-face. The only exception is a few private schools – secondary and tertiary. I am not aware of any public schools that have substantially moved their lesson delivery, assignments, and grading online using the latest Learning Management System (LMS). In view of this reality, rather than locking up schools indefinitely, the relevant Ministries should enforce strict compliance with the COVID-19 protocols and deal singly with erring schools. It is therefore my hope that January 18, 2021, the tentative resumption date fixed by the federal government for schools across the country will not be extended on the excuse of the second wave of COVID-19. Schools (obvious students) across all levels have suffered enough and should not be subjected to further hindrance or agony because of a virus whose total cases since February 2020 is still much less than the cases of malaria. Just imagine the number of people who may have died of malaria or other preventable or treatable diseases (since last February) due to their inability to afford the right drugs or, regrettably, the unavailability of the right equipment or medics in our hospitals. It is the responsibility of the government to make our health system truly functional and accessible in a manner that significantly reduces mortality from minor and preventable diseases. God bless Nigeria! Taofeek Ajibade is an education researcher and public affairs analyst. Trained at the International Centre for Educational Evaluation, University of Ibadan, his interests include Digital Classroom, Teacher Competence, Learning improvement, and emotional intelligence. He’s also a member of the Muslim Writers’ Guild of Nigeria (MASQ-NG). Email: taofeeqajibade@gmail.com Twitter: @taofeeekajibade