Mu’amalat Challenges between Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KAEDCO) Staff and Muslim Customers in Gusau

Abstract

The attitude of staff in most of the public enterprises and Governmental organizations in Nigeria usually determines the effective, efficient, fair and credible relationship between the organization and its clients (customers). Thus, a good representation by the staff of any corporate utility company or industry is an essential element of good governance and sustainable business enterprise. Also, Islamic traditions entail that good moral qualities and ethical values elevate the status of man and make him excel among others in all his endeavours religiously, economically, socially and politically. This research aims to explain the Islamic laws of transaction and mutual dealings (Fiqh al-Mu’amalat), their meaning, sources, scope, as well as ethical and moral qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) that are worthy of emulation by all Muslims in their dealings with one another. The research will also identify some of the Mu’amalat challenges and unethical behaviours exhibited by both parties which are detrimental to their overall progress and provide some possible suggestions and recommendations on how to establish a better relationship between KAEDCO staff and Muslim customers in the Gusau metropolis. The researchers employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches to collect and collate all the necessary data that are relevant and suitable for the research. The results of the findings discovered some of the key areas where problems usually arise between the said parties. It also identified certain rights, obligations and responsibilities of both so that each will operate within his jurisdictions. The teachings of the Islamic law of Mu’amalat have been carefully discussed from the Qur’an, Sunnah and the views of Muslim jurists as a guiding path of ensuring better correspondence between the Staff of KAEDCO and the Muslim customers in Gusau Metropolis. The findings of the study revealed that good service delivery and quick response to customer’s complaints are among the key measures of enhancing a better relationship between the said parties. The paper recommends that both parties should base their Mu’amalat on the basic teachings of Islamic law of transaction as a means of fostering good relationships.