Decency in decline: A nation losing its moral fabric
By Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade
Indecent dressing has steadily crept into our society, becoming a common sight in public spaces, institutions, and even religious gatherings. What used to be condemned as immoral and shameful is now paraded as a symbol of civilization and modern fashion. Unfortunately, this trend erodes the moral foundation of our community and contradicts the teachings of religion, culture, and law.
Moral and Religious Dimensions
From the Islamic perspective, modesty (haya’) is not merely a choice, it is a divine command. The Qur’an clearly instructs both men and women to guard their modesty and dress decently. Allah says:
“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts; that is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.” Qur’an 24:30
“And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts and not display their adornment except what [necessarily] appears thereof; and to draw their veils over their bosoms.” Qur’an 24:31
Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) warned:
“There are two types of people of Hell whom I have not seen… women who are clothed yet naked, walking with an enticing gait, with their heads like the humps of camels. They will not enter Paradise nor smell its fragrance.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2128)
These teachings underscore that decency in dressing is a mark of faith, while indecent dressing is a sign of moral decay.
Cultural and Social Implications
African cultures, including our Yoruba tradition, value decency as a symbol of dignity and self-respect. Unfortunately, foreign fashion trends have influenced many youths to abandon these values. The spread of revealing, tight, and transparent clothing has contributed to moral decline, public indecency, and rising cases of sexual harassment.
A society that permits moral looseness in dressing gradually opens the door to greater social vices. If we must build a morally upright generation, we must restore the principle of modesty in appearance and behavior.
The Legal Backing
Even the Nigerian Constitution recognizes the need to safeguard public morality. Section 45(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) allows the restriction of individual freedoms in the interest of public morality and public order. This means that government authorities are legally empowered to take measures to ensure moral discipline in society.
In line with this, the former Governor of Oyo State, Late Senator Isiaq Abiola Ajimobi, took a courageous step some years ago by banning indecent dressing in public institutions. His administration empowered law enforcement agencies to arrest anyone found violating the dress code. Though that policy faced criticism from some quarters, it was a bold attempt to protect the moral values of the people.
A Collective Responsibility
Tackling indecent dressing should not be left to government alone. Every stakeholder has a role to play. Parents must nurture moral values in their children from home. Schools should enforce dress codes that promote discipline and self-respect. Religious leaders must continue to preach modesty as a virtue.
Media houses and entertainers should desist from glorifying immoral dressing in their productions.
Government agencies should reintroduce and enforce public decency laws nationwide.
Conclusion
Indecent dressing is not a symbol of freedom or advancement; it is a sign of moral decline. Both our religion and our constitution uphold decency as a fundamental aspect of public morality. To save our society from moral collapse, we must collectively revive the culture of modesty in dressing.
As Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Modesty is a branch of faith.”
Let us, therefore, promote decency, discipline, and self-respect in our dressing and conduct. Our homes, schools, and public institutions must once again become models of moral excellence.
*Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade writes from Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria.*
agunbiadeib@gmail.com
Decency in decline: A nation losing its moral fabric
