Assessment of Challenges of Zakat Among Muslims Ummah in Jalingo Local Government Area of Taraba State

ABSTRACT This study examines the challenges associated with wealth distribution among the Muslim Ummah in Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria. Wealth distribution within religious communities holds significance for promoting social justice, reducing poverty, and fostering community cohesion. Despite religious guidelines emphasizing equitable distribution, disparities persist within the Muslim community in Jalingo. This research seeks to identify the primary barriers to effective wealth distribution, including socio-economic, cultural, and institutional factors, and explores the impact of these barriers on the socio-economic well-being of the community. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 200 participants, including community leaders, religious scholars, and local residents. The analysis, conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, reveals that cultural practices, inadequate religious understanding, lack of institutional support, and economic inequalities significantly hinder fair wealth distribution. Additionally, findings indicate that the perception of wealth as an individual achievement rather than a community asset contributes to these disparities. This study concludes that addressing wealth distribution challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including enhanced religious education, community engagement, and supportive policies. These findings offer insights for religious institutions, policy makers, and community leaders aiming to promote a more balanced economic structure within the Muslim Ummah in Jalingo.