March 16, 2025, At the Ma’Shar Alumni Association’s Annual Ramadan Lecture, Islamic scholar Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi, representing Prof. Abubakr Imam Aliagan, delivered an insightful discourse on the positive and negative impacts of social media in contemporary society. The event was held at Shaykh Muhd. Kamaldeen Village, Oko-Olowo Area, Ilorin.
Lafiagi emphasized that three key practices bring blessings on Judgment Day: recitation of the Qur’an, building mosques to facilitate worship, and spreading Islamic knowledge. He stressed that social media, if properly utilized, can serve as a powerful tool for da’wah (Islamic propagation) and education.
Tracing the rise of social media since 2008, Lafiagi explained that before its inception, traditional media such as television and radio dominated communication. Today, social media offers instant access to global events and allows individuals to participate in discussions that shape the world.
He described social media as a “virtual world” that often feels more real than physical interactions. He cited the COVID-19 pandemic as a turning point where many Islamic scholars embraced online platforms for lectures, reaching audiences that exceeded traditional gatherings.
He praised social media for providing access to Islamic and Western education, referencing online learning platforms such as YouTube, where Arabic, Hadith, and Qur’anic studies are easily accessible. He mentioned notable figures like Alawiye, who teaches Arabic online, and other scholars offering Fiqh classes, underscoring the educational benefits of social media.
Beyond education, Lafiagi highlighted how social media enables economic opportunities, citing examples such as: Arojinle, who educates people about the animal world, Masoyinbo Channel, which promotes Yoruba language proficiency and other Online entrepreneurs and influencers, who generate income by leveraging their digital presence.
He further acknowledged that instant messaging has transformed communication, making it possible to conduct meetings, fundraisers, and even organize Ramadan iftar sponsorships through online campaigns.
However, Lafiagi cautioned against the negative aspects of social media, warning of addiction and its impact on spiritual and personal lives. He lamented that past scholars completed the Qur’an in a day, while many today struggle to finish Suratul Baqarah in 16 days of Ramadan, yet spend hours on Facebook and other platforms.
He also warned that social media addiction strains marriages, with individuals prioritizing their phones over meaningful interactions. He urged attendees to reduce screen time and prioritize religious devotion.
Another critical issue raised was the misuse of social media for issuing Islamic rulings. He condemned individuals who, instead of consulting scholars, rely on Google searches to derive fatwas, leading to misinformation and misinterpretation of Islamic principles.
Furthermore, he addressed cyberbullying, online verbal attacks, and the spread of extremist ideologies, which have fueled controversies and divisions among Muslims. He also pointed out the promotion of immorality, fraud, and the decline of real-life interactions, noting that many now neglect family and friends due to their virtual engagements.
Dr Sanusi Lafiagi concluded by urging the audience to use social media wisely, reminding them that potential employers and in-laws often observe online behavior. He called for self-discipline, digital etiquette, and a conscious effort to balance online and offline life.
He emphasized that while social media is a valuable tool, it should be utilized to spread knowledge, foster unity, and enhance spiritual growth, rather than for distraction, division, or sin.