Categories: Opinion

Decency in decline: Is Nigeria losing its moral fabric? – Islamic scholar warns

Decency in decline: Is Nigeria losing its moral fabric? – Islamic scholar warns

Ibadan, Oyo State | October 18, 2025

An Islamic scholar, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, has raised concern over what he described as the alarming rise of indecent dressing in Nigeria, warning that the nation is gradually losing its moral and cultural foundation.

In a statement titled “Decency in Decline: A Nation Losing Its Moral Fabric,” Agunbiade lamented that indecent dressing, once condemned as immoral and shameful, has now become widely accepted in public spaces, educational institutions, and even places of worship.

According to him, the trend contradicts both religious injunctions and traditional African values that uphold modesty and decency. Quoting the Qur’an, he reminded Muslims of Allah’s command for both men and women to “lower their gaze and guard their modesty,” citing verses 30 and 31 of Surah An-Nur.

He also referenced a hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which warns against women “who are clothed yet naked,” describing such conduct as a sign of moral decay and disobedience to divine guidance.

Agunbiade stressed that African societies—particularly the Yoruba culture—historically value decent dressing as a reflection of dignity and self-respect. However, he noted that the influence of foreign fashion trends has led many young people to abandon these traditional values, resulting in public indecency and increased cases of sexual harassment.

He also drew attention to the legal dimension, citing Section 45(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which allows the restriction of personal freedoms in the interest of public morality and order. The scholar praised the late former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, for his efforts to curb indecent dressing in public institutions through policy enforcement.

“His administration took a bold step in protecting the moral values of the people,” Agunbiade stated, calling for similar action from governments across Nigeria.

He emphasized that curbing indecent dressing is a collective responsibility, urging parents, schools, religious leaders, media practitioners, and government agencies to take proactive roles in restoring moral discipline in society.

“Indecent dressing is not a symbol of freedom or modernization; it is a sign of moral decline,” he warned. “To save our society from collapse, we must revive the culture of modesty in dressing and behavior.”

Mallam Agunbiade concluded his statement with a reminder from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “Modesty is a branch of faith.”

He urged Nigerians to uphold decency, discipline, and self-respect in their appearance and conduct to preserve the moral integrity of the nation.

Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade writes from Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Email: agunbiadeib@gmail.com