Mobile Phones Are Endangering Youth Morality, Imam Abdul Jaleel Abdur Rafiu Tells Parents

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Chief Imam of Sarumi Alawo Central Mosque, Imam Abdul Jaleel Abdur Rafiu, has warned parents about the dangers of unrestricted mobile phone use among children, stressing that it seriously threatens youth morality and Islamic values.

Speaking during the 3rd Certification Ceremony and 10th Anniversary of Hifzul Qur’an Academy, Isefun, Ayobo, Lagos State, held over the weekend, Imam Abdur Rafiu appealed to parents to vigilantly monitor their children’s use of mobile devices and social media.

While acknowledging the undeniable benefits of mobile phones—such as enhanced access to knowledge, ease of communication, and opportunities for self-education—the Imam cautioned that the harmful effects of unregulated use far outweigh the advantages. He identified some of the dangers as exposure to harmful doctrines, wastage of valuable time, addiction to pornography, and the consumption of sexually explicit materials.

Imam Abdur Rafiu therefore advised parents against giving mobile phones to primary and secondary school students, emphasizing that early exposure without proper control could erode moral values. Where necessary, he recommended the use of parental control apps and devices to restrict access to harmful content.

Addressing the seven students who were honoured for memorising 10 Juz’ of the Qur’an, the Imam urged them not to see the occasion as the end of their learning journey. He reminded them that consistent recitation and revision of the Qur’an is vital to preserve their knowledge.

In his remarks, the Chairman and Proprietor of the Academy, Alhaji Muneerudeen Abiodun Mustapha Badmus, highlighted some of the challenges facing the centre. These include poor funding, irregular payment of school fees by parents, limited monitoring of students at home, frequent and unnecessary absenteeism, and a shortage of qualified Qur’an teachers (Hafiz) to train the students.

He expressed concern over the growing trend among parents of prioritizing Western education over Islamic education, which he described as detrimental to the holistic upbringing of Muslim children.

Alhaji Badmus made an appeal to well-meaning Muslims for financial assistance to help the Academy build a permanent site. He disclosed that the estimated cost of the new facility stands at N20 million.

The graduating students who were celebrated at the event include Hajia Anaat Kayode, Hajia Mardiyyah Irinoye, Hajia Muhsinah Adebayo, Hajia Halinah Moshood, Brother Sulaiman Adebisi, Brother Al Amin Shomoye, and Hussain Taiwo.

The event ended with prayers for the success of the students and the continued growth of Islamic knowledge in the community.

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