Abstract:
It is a common knowledge among Muslims that Islam has dos and don’ts. A Hadīth confirms this when it mentioned that prohibited things are clear and permissible things are also well enunciated by the Law Giver. It is also on record that Islam as a religion intends ease for its adherents not difficulties. This is the main reason why Allah leaves room for necessity, particularly when humans are being driven by it. Muslims in Nigeria, scholars and non-scholars differ on whether a Muslim can partake in the country’s election. To some, a Muslim cannot participate in the election of the country because it is characterised by different acts of Kufr (disbelief), while other group of Muslims uphold the need for the Muslims to be fully part of the exercise noting that if Muslims fail to do so, their affairs will be controlled by the unbelievers which will in turn create difficult problem for the whole Muslim community. In order to advocate unity among Muslims and sensitise them on this issue, this research work examined the application of the Maxim “Ad-Darūrᾱtu Tubīhul Mahzhūrᾱt” (necessities make prohibited acts permissible) to justify the need for the Muslims to take part in the country’s elections. The research adopted both theoretical and analytical method of research to drive home its points. It found that directly or indirectly both the Qur’ān and Hadīth are fully in support of the claim. It is concluded that there is no harm if the Nigerian Muslims participate in the country’s elections.