The multidimensional role of fatwa in Nigeria with Malaysia as a model

Abstract

Researches have shown that fatwa has important role to play in the contemporary society, more especially in countries with large number of Muslims, which include Nigeria and Malaysia. However, previous empirical studies revealed that only little research was carried out on fatwa particularly in terms of its inter-relationship with the practical life situation. While previous studies have focused largely on the classical value of fatwa and its different manifestations in the modern Muslim societies, this research seeks to understand the utilitarian value of fatwa in its interaction with the modern dispensation. Thus, this research attempts to fill a relative gap in the scholarship on fatwa and its relevance to Nigeria using Malaysia as a model. Generally, most people understand the concept of fatwa from the traditional perspective as the personal and non-binding legal verdict of Muslim scholars. However, this is a clear misconception about the understanding of the technical meaning and utilitarian value of fatwa as well as its role in the contemporary society. This study therefore examines the assumptions that underlie the interactions between the fatwa concept and its institutionalisation on one hand; and its relationship with some selected institutions on the other hand. In gathering the research data, doctrinal and non-doctrinal methodologies were used in accordance with the design herein set out in this research. Consequently, this research finds that fatwa can be utilised as an instrument for social and ideological change, as well as a catalyst for the socio-economic and political developments. In the end, the study reveals the relevance of the Malaysian fatwa model to Nigeria. Thus, the study suggests the institutionalisation of fatwa in Nigeria, which if successfully executed, could go far in tackling the religious controversies and extremism in the country.