Gombe-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Muhammad Adamu Albani Gombe, has defended his decision to publicly acknowledge a N3 million donation made by Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna towards settling the debts of the late businessman and Islamic preacher, Malam Sadiq.
In a lecture video circulating on social media this week, Sheikh Albani explained that the donation was disclosed to encourage acts of charity and to appreciate those who support humanitarian causes.
According to the cleric, investigations after Malam Sadiq’s death revealed that he owed creditors more than N8 million, with the figure approaching N9 million.
“Do you know what we discovered? Malam Sadiq was in debt of over eight million naira… It even reached nearly nine million,” Sheikh Albani said.
“The only person we know who gave us assistance to help reduce the debt that Malam Sadiq owed was Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna. He brought out three million naira and gave it.”
The cleric said there was nothing wrong with publicly appreciating such generosity.
“Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna took three million naira and donated it. Should we then shut our mouths and stay silent? May Allah reward him with goodness. May Allah reward him with Paradise,” he said.
Sheikh Albani also responded to criticism that followed his comments, saying he would not be intimidated by personal attacks or accusations.
“Since you said I am nobody, I accept that I am nobody. You said I am being envious, well let it continue. But I swear, if I am pushed to the wall, there are certain things that I have not said but I will say them if pushed to the wall,” he stated.
Defending his acceptance of donations for religious and community activities, the scholar maintained that receiving lawful support for charitable work was not improper.
“It won’t stop me from taking it if someone sees what I do and says, ‘Malam, here is one million for you.’ By Allah, it won’t stop me; if you want to burst with anger, go ahead,” he said.
Addressing criticism linked to politics, Sheikh Albani stressed that political support remains a matter of personal choice.
“As for political matters, it is a matter of choice. It is like a garment; we choose to support whoever we see fit. Your insults will not stop me from speaking out. Do not think that I am a coward; by Allah, I do not fear anyone,” he said.
Reaffirming his position, the cleric said he stood by his earlier remarks.
“What I said was merely a commentary… And I stand by it. I stand by it,” he said before quoting Qur’an 40:44: “And you will remember what I say to you, and I entrust my affair to Allah.”
Although the lecture has generated political reactions on social media, Sheikh Albani did not mention the name of any politician in the remarks contained in the widely circulated video. His comments focused on the late Malam Sadiq’s outstanding debts, Dr. Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna’s donation, and his response to critics.
