The Muslim Association of Nigeria (MAN) has appealed to rich Muslims across the country to pay their Zakat (charity) as and when due.
The association noted that this is necessary to reduce the level of poverty in the country.
The payment of Zakat is the third pillar of the Islamic religion.
MAN has, however, enjoined the rich men and women of the Islamic faith to pay their Zakat, to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor in society.
The group’s Chairman, Ibadan branch, Rahman Olawale AbdulGaniy made the disclosures after distributing the proceeds of Zakat (charity) to 35 beneficiaries from Lagos and Oyo State.
AbdulGaniy, who spoke with our correspondent on Thursday after the distribution, explained that the beneficiaries were given tools of empowerment during the Zakat distribution.
AbdulGaniy also appealed to regular contributions not to relent in doing so, adding that the level of poverty will reduce if the rich in society pay their Zakat.
He said, “I want to appeal to the well-to-do individuals to always pay their Zakat. We will distribute it among the poor. This will help us to reduce the level of poverty. The government cannot do everything.
“There are many benefits of Zakat. Payment of Zakat is the third pillar of Islam. It helps us to purify our wealth when we pay it. It also helps to reduce the level of poverty. It helps to ensure redistribution of wealth”.
Bayo Oyero, who is one of the BOT members of MAN also advised other Muslim organizations to emulate the practice of sharing Zakat to eradicate poverty, especially among Muslims.
