THREAT TO LEAVE ISLAM
It has been reported that Hausa film actress Nafisa Abdullahi allegedly vowed to leave Islam because of the backlash she has received over her criticism of marriage.
According to the claim, the harsh reactions deeply hurt her, leading her to say that she would leave Islam and live her life however she chooses.
We appeal to Nafisa Abdullahi to understand that Islam does not belong to any individual—it is the religion of Allah. A person does not practice Islam because of other people, and there is no compulsion in Islam.
You criticized marriage, and people advised you because they believed you were mistaken and wanted you to reconsider. After all, you yourself were born through marriage, and you take pride in that. So why bring up the idea of leaving Islam?
Threatening to leave Islam simply because people responded to your criticism of marriage reflects, in the writer's opinion, a serious lack of understanding of the religion.
If you were practicing Islam only because of people, then, according to the writer, leaving it would make no difference. But if you practice Islam for the sake of Allah, then continue to do so and do not be disturbed by criticism. Responding to and debating ideas has always been part of religious discourse and is one of the ways truth is clarified.
As for marriage, which you say you dislike, it is not obligatory in every circumstance—especially if you are confident you can avoid committing adultery. However, if remaining unmarried would lead you into adultery, then marriage becomes obligatory for you.
We pray that Allah guides you and keeps both you and us steadfast in Islam.
Datti Assalafy