Hardship: Supreme Council of Shari’ah advocates for expansion of social safety net

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Shari’ah Council in Nigeria (SCSN,) has called on the Federal Government to expand Social Safety Net.
The President of the Council, Sheikh Abdurrasheed Hadiytullah, made the plea during his speech at the Annual Pre Ramadhan Meeting of the Majlis Ash Shurah, held in Kaduna yesterday.
According to him, the purpose of the expansion is to accommodate and cater for the well-being of Nigerians as a means to social development.
The social safety net is a non-contributory assistance existing to improve the lives of vulnerable Nigerians who are facing hardship.
He explained that many Nigerians are suffering and are about to lose hope, therefore, the Federal government should devise possible means to reach out to the poor masses as a way of rebuilding their hopes.
He also called on the government, Organizations and the elite members of the society to see how they reach out to as many as they can and also advocate for the establishment of a social safety net.
“Let us also use our respective podiums this Ramadan to advocate for the establishment of an expansive social safety net to provide immediate relief to the most vulnerable in our populations.”
“In this regard, we appeal to the federal and state governments, to provide immediate relief and succour to the multitudes of the disadvantaged against the stifling economic hardships.”
“In addition, we call on all governments to also consider organizing community feeding for them, in as many centres, especially during the time of iftar.”
The President also emphasized the need for Nigerians to stand united in love and peace as only then can the challenges be conquered.
“In these challenging times, it is crucial that we uphold the principles of peace, unity, and understanding.”
“We should preach against resorting to violent protests against the government and strive for dialogue and constructive engagement with governments to address our concerns.”