By Sulaiman Aruna Sesay
The recent statement made by the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, that Mosques are stealing electricity has sparked dissatisfaction from Sheikh Farouk Adam Bah. While Dr. Sengeh’s statement may seem harsh, it is an alarming issue that needs to be addressed.
Sheikh Farouk Adam Bah has expressed concerns over the Chief Minister’s remarks, stating that they are divisive and have the potential to create religious tensions in the country. The Chief Minister’s did not only accused mosques of electricity theft, but also churches and temples.
According to a recently published lecture by the learned Sheikh Farouk Adam Bah, he emphasized how small power is on earth no matter the privileges attached to it. If one who they hold in high esteem started accusing Masjids of stealing electricity, it simply means, we are on the wrong place.
Electricity theft is a significant problem in Sierra Leone, and it is estimated that it costs the country millions of dollars annually. The practice is a significant drain on the country’s economy and negatively impacts the delivery of essential services to the population. It is, therefore, a matter of urgency that the issue is addressed appropriately.
Dr. Sengeh’s statement should be viewed as a call to action to address the issue of electricity theft in the country. It is undeniable that Mosques, along with other places of worship, have a social obligation to provide essential services to their communities, including electricity. Stealing electricity is an illegal act and goes against the tenets of Islam and other religions.
It is incumbent on religious leaders and their followers to uphold the laws of the country and ensure that they obtain electricity legally. Religious leaders should also take the initiative to educate their members on the negative impact of electricity theft on the country’s economy and the provision of public services.
While Sheikh Farouk Adam Bah’s concerns are understandable, it is crucial to view Dr. Sengeh’s statement as a call to action to address the issue of electricity theft in Sierra Leone. It is a problem that affects all sectors of society, and religious leaders should take the initiative to educate their followers to obtain electricity legally and contribute to the development of the country.
