A Professor of Islamic Law at the University of Ilorin, University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdur-Razaq Abdulmajeed Alaro, has called on Muslims to show deeper compassion and sustained responsibility towards families who lose loved ones, stressing that support must continue even after burial ceremonies.
Prof. Alaro made the call while delivering the 5th Ramadan Lecture of the Muslim Community at the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), where he spoke on the topic, “The Role of Muslims in Supporting the Bereaved: Attitude and Responsibilities During and After Burial.”
Addressing participants at the institute, the Islamic scholar described the bereaved as individuals who have lost close family members such as parents, spouses or children, noting that such losses often leave deep emotional and psychological wounds.
“We are here to discuss how we support the bereaved,” he said. “The bereaved is someone who has lost a close relationship. These are people who are hurting and who need more than just our presence at the burial ground.”
Prof. Alaro lamented that rising conflicts and global tensions are increasing the number of grieving families across the world, insisting that injustice and abuse of power often leave innocent people counting avoidable losses.
“This world will become a terrible place for all of us if the only reason for actions is that one party is more powerful than the other,” he warned. “There must be justice and fairness. As Muslims and as people of righteousness, we must always stand on the side of justice.”
He urged Muslims not to limit their role to offering condolences during funeral rites alone, but to extend emotional, moral and material support to affected families long after mourners have departed.
According to him, prayer, empathy and practical assistance are critical in helping grieving families regain stability. He also reminded the faithful that power is transient and ultimately belongs to God.
“There have been empires and superpowers in the past. Where are they today?” he asked. “We must remember that true power belongs to Almighty Allah, who gives and takes it as He wills.”
The lecture formed part of activities lined up for the Ramadan period by the Muslim community within MINILS, drawing participants from management, staff and invited guests.