By AbdulMusowir Akorede
In a powerful call to unity and absolute obedience, the Amir (National President) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Abdul Azeez Alatoye Folorunso, has declared that the divine blessings of Khilafat cannot be attained without full submission to the administrative system of the Jama’at.
He made this declaration on Friday while delivering his Inaugural Address to flag off the 71st Jalsa Salana Nigeria at the conference ground in Ilaro.
Speaking on the theme of the convention, “And hold fast, all together, by the rope of Allah and be not divided” (Quran 3:104), the Amir explained that this verse contains the most profound directives regarding communal life, spiritual brotherhood, and the believers’ attachment to the institution of Khilafat.
He elucidated that the “Rope of Allah” refers to the Messenger sent by God, and by extension, the system of Khilafat that follows prophethood. He warned that any attempt to separate one’s relationship with the Khalifa from the Jama’at administrative system is a spiritual fallacy.
Quoting the guidance of the World Head of the Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba), the Amir reiterated that the system of the Jama’at is an extension of the Khalifa’s hand. He reminded the gathering that whoever obeys the Amir has obeyed the Khalifah, and whoever disobeys the Jama’at leadership has, in effect, disobeyed the Khalifah.
Alhaji Alatoye issued a solemn warning to those who might be tempted to loosen their hold on this rope while remaining outwardly within the Jama’at. He cautioned that such individuals do not merely bring about their own ruin by stepping outside God’s protection, but also risk becoming a cause of ruin for others around them.
Concluding his inaugural address, the Amir reminded the thousands of attendees that treading the path of righteousness (Taqwa), establishing regular prayers, and advancing in financial sacrifice are the practical ways to tighten one’s hold on the Rope of Allah.
The atmosphere at the Jalsa ground remained charged with a sense of solemn responsibility as the Amir formally hoisted the Liwai-Ahmadiyyat, signaling the commencement of the three-day spiritual gathering.
