Religion

Sultan Declares Thursday Dhul Hijjah 1, Saturday Sallah

By Web News 1010

The Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Thursday 30 June as Dhul Hijjah 1, 1443AH.

This means that Saturday 9 July is the Eidul Adha or Sallah day, coming after Friday 8 July, which is Arafat Day.

A statement from the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC), said that Sultan Abubakar has declared Thursday 30th June as the first day of Dhul Hijjah.

“Eidul Adha will be on Saturday, 10th Dhul Hijjah 1443H (9th July 2022) In Sha Allah.

His Eminence, the Sultan hereby calls upon the Muslim Ummah to intensify efforts in acts of worship during the first 10 days of the blessed month of Dhul Hijjah. And also pray for peace, stability, and progress of the country, the statement said.   

FRCN Abuja

Religion

Look out for new moon of Dhul-Hijjah – Sultan

By Web News 829

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has directed the Muslim Ummah to look out for the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah as from tonight.

Abubakar said this in a statement on Tuesday in Sokoto by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, Professor Sambo Junaidu.

“This is to inform the Muslim Ummah that Wednesday, June 29, which is equivalent to 29th of Dhul-Qidah 1443AH, shall be the day to look out for the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah 1443AH.

“Muslims are, therefore, requested to start looking for the new moon on Wednesday and report its sighting to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to the Sultan,” he said.

The Sultan prayed Allah to assist the Muslim Ummah in the discharge of its religious duties.

Dhul-Hijjah is the 12th and last month in the Islamic calendar in which the holy pilgrimage (Hajj) takes place, as well as the festival of sacrifice, called Eid-el-Kabir.

The Nation/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Religion

Oyo MMPN Inaugurates New Executives

By Web News 485


… awards Members , Branch for Outstanding Performance

The Muslim Media Practitioners Of Nigeria, MMPN, ,Oyo State Chapter has inaugurated new executive members to steer the affairs of the association for the next two years .
The event which was held at the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA Central Mosque lbadan, marked the third Annual Conference of the Association, an initiative of the immediate past administration .
The Chief Missioner , MMPN Oyo State Chapter, Malam Akeem Ghazali while delivering a lecture entitled
“Leadership and Trust in Islam :A Siamese Twin”
emphasized the need for Muslims to embrace truth which according to him, is the key that can take the association to greater heights.

He admonished the new leadership of the Association to consult widely when necessary and work as a team.

The Chairman on the occasion, Alhaji Muftaudeen Jeariogbe commended the immediate past administration for the introduction of new innovations and membership drive, saying the acts will enable new executives to build on such achievements.

Alhaji Jeorigbe who appealed to the leadership of MMPN not to deviate from the path the association is known for lauded the immediate past executives for upholding the zoning and established system adopted by the previous administrations in determining the leaderships of the association.

The Immediate Past Chairman of the association, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi of Radio Nigeria, Ibadan, said that standard transition practice is inevitable for the progress of any organization.

Alhaji Fasasi, who attributed the success of his administration to team work, urged the new executives to sustain legacies of the association, particularly its campaign against anti – Islamic programmes run by some private radio stations in the state for the benefit of Islam .

In his acceptance speech,the New Chairman , MMPN , Oyo State Chapter , Alhaji Abdul Rofih Adebayo of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, BCOS commended the immediate past executives for various innovations and sought for Allah’s guidance in his quest to take the association to enviable heights.
The Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Abdur Rasheed Abdul Azeez, The Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Oyo State, Comrade Ademola Babalola and former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Alhaji Ladiran
admonished the new executives to uphold the dictate of almighty Allah in their dealings, and see the task as service to humanity.

The event which was graced by veterans and journalists from print, broadcast and new media outfits , witnessed presentation of awards to outstanding members as well as presentation of certificates to members of the immediate past executives.

Some of the award recipients include Mr Ibrahim Adegoke as the most outstanding member, Alhaja Hafsat Adedeji as the most punctual member and Alhaji Amsat Ladiran as the most supportive elder.

Others are the best branch won by the Ministry of Information and a gift was presented to a retired member of the Association from Radio Nigeria Branch, Alhaji Tohir Imam.

Rilwan Fasasi

Religion

Accusations of BTA funds diversions baseless – Oyo Pilgrims Board

By Web News 526

The Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Professor Sayed Malik has denied insinuations that some pilgrims from the state who are already in Saudi Arabia have been denied their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA).

Professor Malik who was reacting to reports being circulated via online channels, said the reports were unfounded and far from the true situation of things at the State’s Hajj camps in Saudi Arabia.

He emphasised that the Muslim Wing of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board has not diverted funds meant for the payment of BTA of the first batch of pilgrims from the state who are currently in Saudi Arabia.

Professor Malik said: “It is not true in any way, that the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) has diverted funds meant for the payment of BTA of the first batch of pilgrims from the state, who are currently in Saudi Arabia. Such a report can only be a figment of the imagination of the writer.”

“The truth of the matter is that there were delays in the release of BTA to the Board as a result of the late release of the circular guiding the payment of the allowances by the authorities in Abuja. This is not peculiar to Oyo State pilgrims, as all pilgrims across the states are faced with the same situation.”

“As a result of the delay, the first batch of travelers from Oyo State and several other states of the federation had to embark on the trip to Saudi before the BTA could be secured. The delay, however, does not indicate that any of the travelers would lose their entitlements.

“By the time the second batch of travelers were leaving Nigeria, only a fraction of the entire BTA had been secured and it was concluded that each of the travelers be made to get $400 while those who were already in Saudi Arabia were paid $200 each, pending the release of the entire money by the Nigerian authorities.

“It must be placed on record that the dollar scarcity which had hit the foreign exchange market is a key contributor to the delay to secure the required BTA.”

“While the delayed payment of the BTA is regretted, we have to place on record that there is no intention to divert anyone’s entitlement or deny any of the pilgrims their due. We make bold to undertake that each of the pilgrims will get what is approved for them in the course of the holy pilgrimage.”

“The welfare of every pilgrim remains our utmost concern at all times.” Professor Malik added.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Gov. Makinde Appeals to Protesting Pilgrims

By Web News 596

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has appealed to Muslim pilgrims on the waiting list to exercise patience.

He said his administration would work with the National Hajj Commission in resolving administrative bottlenecks causing delays.

Governor Makinde made the appeal when he received some of the intending pilgrims on a peaceful protest to his office.

While acknowledging that the challenges were due to backlog caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions based on visa quota amongst others, governor Makinde said his administration would take necessary actions and responsibilities in ensuring intending pilgrims shortlisted from Oyo state were airlifted 

He, however, expressed shock at the poor state of social facilities and conveniences at the Olodo Hajj Camp Ibadan, promising to quickly address the challenge to enable intending pilgrims to enjoy standard social facilities at the camp subsequently.

Speaking on behalf of the pilgrims on the waiting list, Alhaji Adebayo Gafar lamented their ordeal, especially the trauma of selling off personal belongings to meet the deadline for payments and enduring uncomfortable experiences at the Olodo Hajj Camp, appealing to the Governor to intervene in ensuring their efforts were not in vain by being airlifted.

They equally presented a list of all intending pilgrims yet to be airlifted to Governor Seyi Makinde for consideration and to expedite actions. 

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

First Batch of Ogun Pilgrims Arrive Saudi Arabia

By Web News 779

Four hundred intending pilgrims from Ogun State have arrived at Medinah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to perform the 2022 Hajj exercise.

The Director of Administration and Supplies, Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Ajibola Taiwo confirmed the arrival of the pilgrims to Radio Nigeria.

Alhaji Taiwo said the first batch of the intending pilgrims which comprises 169 Males and 231 females arrived safely at the holy land of Medinah.

He assured that officials of the Board had made necessary arrangements to provide adequate welfare for the pilgrims, adding that the second batch would be airlifted in due course.

Olusegun Folarin

Religion

Ogun Govt Charges Intending Pilgrims to be Good Ambassadors

By Web News 516

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has cautioned intending pilgrims to Mecca and Medina not to engage in acts capable of tarnishing the image of the state and the country.

Governor Abiodun gave the warning in Abeokuta while inaugurating the Ad-hoc Committee of Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Governor Abiodun who noted that the state had no criminal records in the Holy Land implored the Intending pilgrims to this year’s Hajj to sustain the clean records.

He also explained that members of the committee were carefully selected from a pool of equally dedicated and spiritually upright Muslims and urged them to commence work in earnest to have an improved Hajj operation this year.

Responding, Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee, Alhaji Kehinde Lawal, commended the Governor for the confidence reposed in the members and gave the assurance that the committee would not disappoint the government and people of the state.

Also, the Amir Hajj, Professor Kamal Balogun gave the assurance that the Committee would live up to expectations of the government and people of the state.

Bolanle Adesida

Religion

Nigeria needs prayers to end insecurity – Makinde Tells Intending Pilgrims

By Web News 514

Oyo state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has urged Intending pilgrims to use the opportunity of their pilgrimage to Mecca to pray for an end to several security challenges facing the nation.

He said this while bidding farewell to the state Intending pilgrims at Hajj camp, Olodo Ibadan.

Governor Makinde who was represented by the chairman, Oyo state Housing Corporation, Barrister Bayo Lawal, also called for prayers against chaos in Oyo state especially ahead of the 2023 general election.

He said the nation needed prayers to deal with the unending incidences of kidnapping, killings and other forms of criminalities in Nigeria.

 Governor Makinde who urged the intending pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the state by shunning hard drugs and adhere to the rules of Saudi Arabia added that his administration remained committed to welfare of muslims.

Earlier, Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslims wing), Professor Sayed Malik expressed joy that intending pilgrims were once again being airlifted after COVID-19 two years break to Hajj operations.

He urged the intending pilgrims to consider themselves privileged and blessed by Allah to be among the few number approved by the Hajj authorities.

Professor Malik, however enjoined the state government to consider a facelift of the Hajj camp especially completion of the administrative building at the camp that has been abandoned since 2015.

Present at the event were Aare Musulumi for Yoruba land, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola; former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Alhaja Bose Adedibu; state Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Professor Musbau Babatunde and Justice Moshood Abass.

The first batch of Oyo state intending pilgrims are expected to leave Nigeria on Thursday, June 16th, 2022 to the kingdom of the Saudi Arabia.


Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Oyo Hajj Pilgrims Take off Wednesday

By Web News 545

The Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde will on Wednesday morning bid farewell to Muslim Faithful performing this year’s holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia from the state.

The Chairman State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim’s Wing), Professor Sayed Malik hinted this in a chat with newsmen.

Professor Malik explained that the farewell ceremony for the intending pilgrims will hold at the State Hajj Camp in Olodo Ibadan.

According to him, the first batch of the state-contingent will depart Ibadan on Thursday 16th June 2022 for Lagos, where they will be airlifted to Saudi Arabia in the early hours of Friday 17th June 2022.

Professor Malik enjoined all the intending pilgrims from the state to make themselves available at the State Hajj Camp on Thursday morning.

About 779 Muslim Faithful are performing the Hajj from the state.

Nafiu Busari

Religion

Churches in Ondo Beef up Security, Hold Services

By Web News 482

Despite the palpable fear of terror attack on worship centers in Ondo State arising from last Sunday attack on a church in Owo , many Christians today were in their various churches for the Sunday service.

Police vehicles also patrolled the roads in the State capital even as it was observed that churches beefed up security around their premises.

Speaking Radio Nigeria , Mr Stephen Agbeko and Mrs Victoria Olayinka who worshipped at GOFAMINT Oyemekun Akure both said what happened in Owo was not enough reason to stay away from church but prayed that God would take control of the insecurity problem in the country.

The Akure District Pastor of GOFAMINT Church , Pastor Adegbola Adelabu led prayers for God’s intervention in the affairs of Nigeria and enjoined the congregation to be security conscious.

In a Sunday message , Pastor Anthony Adeyemi while speaking on the sermon titled ” the father’s love ” shared some details about the love of God for mankind.

Pastor Adeyemi quoting from John 15 :13 and Luke 15:11 encouraged christians to always reciprocate the love of God .

Some churches in Igoba , Akure North Council of Area however recorded low attendance as some members stayed away.

Radio Nigeria gathered though there was presence of security operatives in some churches visited especially big worship centers.

In a message , Pastor Omotunwase of the Redeemed Christian Church of God quoting from Psalm 91 enjoined the congregation not to give in to fear due to the recent attack in Owo.

He also called on the Federal Government to be alive to its responsibility of keeping the country safe.

Dupe Isename

Religion

2022 Hajj Preparations Kick off in Oyo State

By Web News 763

Preparations for this year’s pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia by the intending pilgrims from Oyo State continue today at the State Hajj Camp in Olodo Ibadan as the intending pilgrims received traveling bags and other materials needed for the holy trip.

The intending pilgrims were also given Ankara textile to be worn as a uniform on their way to the Holy Land.

Presiding over the distribution of the necessities to the intending pilgrims, Chairman, State Pilgrims Welfare Board Muslim Wing, Professor Sayed H. A Malik admonished them to adhere strictly to the dos and don’ts of the Hajj exercise.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde is expected to bid the intending pilgrims from the state farewell on Wednesday 15th June 2022.

The farewell ceremony for those embarking on Hajj exercise from the state will hold at the State Hajj Camp in Olodo Ibadan.

The first batch of the state-contingent will depart Ibadan on Thursday 16th June 2022 for Lagos, where they will be airlifted to Saudi Arabia at 8 am on Friday 17th June 2022.

Professor Malik enjoined all the intending pilgrims from the state to make themselves available at the State Hajj Camp by Thursday morning.

About 779 Muslim Faithfuls are embarking on the Islamic Holy Pilgrimage from the state.

Nofiu Busari

Religion

Saudi Spells Out Rules for Hajj Airline Operators

By Web News 474

The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued new rules for airlines transporting pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season.

The rules cover all airlines working in the kingdom’s airports, including private airlines, regarding the health requirements that should be met by passengers arriving in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.

According to the new rules, pilgrim passengers should be less than 65 years old and have completed immunizations with basic doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

Pilgrim passengers must also submit a negative PCR test for COVID-19 taken within 72 hours prior to departure to the kingdom.

Meanwhile, the national carrier of the country, Saudi Arabian Airlines SAUDIA, has allocated 14 aircraft for pilgrims, which are expected to make 268 international flights from and to 15 stations worldwide, as well as 32 domestic flights.

In total, the airline will be responsible for providing around 107,000 international and 12,800 domestic seats during the Hajj season, it added.

Saudi Arabia announced in April its plan to receive one million domestic and foreign pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season.

It is the first time that foreign pilgrims will be allowed to perform Hajj after the previous two seasons, which were restricted to domestic pilgrims due to COVID-19 outbreaks.

Vanguard/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Religion

Saudi Arabia Launches E-service for Umrah Pilgrims to get Visas in 24 Hours

By Web News 844

The kingdom of Saudi Arabia says it has launched an electronic service for Umrah pilgrims to access visas within 24 hours. 

With the launch, Muslims from Nigeria and other countries around the world planning to attend Umrah can now individually apply for the visa through a designated web service. 

Umrah is the non-mandatory lesser pilgrimage made by Muslims to Mecca, which may be performed at any time of the year.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of hajj and umrah in Saudi Arabia, said the Umrah visa validity has also been extended from one month to three months.

Tawfiq added that “the visit visa for Umrah will be issued now within 24 hours”.

He said pilgrims who visit the kingdom to perform umrah can also visit other Saudi cities without any restraints.

The minister said one million people are expected to perform hajj in 2022, including 85 percent as foreigners.

He said the ministry and other related agencies are working to ensure the safety of all pilgrims, adding that, digital technologies would help organise the 2022 hajj better.

Cable/Taiwo Akinola

Religion

Pope’s choice of Nigerian cardinal, a good omen – PMB

By Web News 533

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed happiness with Pope Francis’ appointment of Bishop Peter Okpaleke of Ekwulobia Diocese, Anambra State, as a Cardinal in the Catholic Church.

Bishop Okpaleke becomes the fourth Cardinal from Nigeria after Francis Arinze, Anthony Okogie, and John Onaiyekan.

He is among the 21 new Cardinals Pope Francis announced on 29 May.

President Buhari commended the Pope for finding a capable Nigerian to be one of the two nominees  from the African Continent, and congratulated the Nigerian Christian Community on the Pope’s choice, describing the Cardinal-designate as ably qualified, stressing that having him in that position will benefit the country.

The President also commended the commitment of the Catholic Church to the unity, peace, and progress of Nigerian.

He also highlighted the effort of the Church in combatting the Covid-19  pandemic, as well as its support and commitment in favour of the poor and most vulnerable members of the society.

Abdullah Bello

Religion

Church Stampede Claims 31 Lives

By Web News 618

No fewer than 31 persons have been confirmed dead in a stampede at a church event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Saturday.

A new generation church, known as ‘Kings Assembly,’ located in the GRA area of the metropolis, was organising a programme at the Polo Club in the Rivers State capital to accommodate the usually large congregation.

It was learnt that the crowd overstretched the venue as the church had invited members of the public to come and receive gift items and free food for its fourth anniversary.

The invitees according  to reports, have been arriving since Friday evening, while others arrived as early as 6.30am on Saturday, for an event that was scheduled to start by 9am.

As soon as the bouncers opened the gate, they all rushed in. However, a stampede occurred, resulting in the death of some persons.

Most of the victims were reportedly taken to the nearby military hospital.

The acting spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, who confirmed the incident in a statement, said: “Thirty-one persons for now have been confirmed dead and those injured are responding to treatment. We are investigating to find out what really happened.” Newspeak / Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Religion

IPOB Warning: Pastor Kumuyi Cancels Aba Crusade

By Web News 924

The General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, has cancelled his planned crusade in Aba, Abia State.

Chairman of the crusade’s organising team, Pastor James Akpofure, made this known in a statement issued on Saturday.

In the statement titled, “Celebrating One Year of Global Evangelisation (Global Crusade with Kumuyi)”, Akpofure said Pator Kumuyi would keep praying for God’s divine intervention for the insecurity bedevilling the South-East geopolitical zone.

He also noted that a new venue for the crusade would be announced later.

“As there are currently some security challenges at the intended alpha location (Aba, Abia State, Nigeria), the Global Crusade Convener, Pastor (Dr) W.F. Kumuyi commiserates with our people in Abia State and will be praying along for God’s Divine Intervention,” Akpofure said.

The crusade was scheduled to hold in Aba from May 24 to May 29, 2022 but the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra,IPOB, told the 80-year-old cleric not to go ahead with the crusade.

Earlier on Thursday, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, had asked Pastor Kumuyi to consider the insecurity in the South East and not proceed with the crusade.

“Let him (Kumuyi) and the organisers of the crusade make sure that nothing happens. The security of this region is not good because of political and criminal activities. We, therefore, advise him to stop this crusade for security reasons.”

“IPOB will not allow anyone to die because of this crusade scheduled to hold in Aba. The probability of criminals operating as unknown gunmen infiltrating the crusade is high and they will blame it on IPOB,” Powerful had said in a statement.”

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, had backed Pastor Kumuyi and urged IPOB to allow the crusade to proceed.

However, the octogenarian heeded IPOB’s warning and cancelled the Aba crusade on Saturday.

The South-East zone has recorded massive killings and deadly attacks by gunmen in the past one year.

Hundreds of civilians, politicians and security agents have been gruesomely murdered by rampaging marauders parading themselves as ‘unknown gunmen’.

Also, government facilities including local government secretariats, police stations and offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission have been burnt by the vicious criminals.

Pastor Kumuyi’s crusade was not the first to be cancelled in recent times as the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, also cancelled his crusades in Sokoto and Bauchi states following the brutal murder of a Christian student, Deborah Yakubu, for alleged blasphemy against Prophet Muhammed, last week.

PUNCH/Maxwell  Oyekunle

Religion

Deborah Samuel: Killing unislamic, barbaric- NACOMYO

By Web News 699

National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations, NACOMYO has joined others to condemn the killing of Deborah Samuel in Sokoto State for an alleged blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad.

In a statement signed by NACOMYO National President,  Sani Suleiman- Maigoro and the Secretary General,  Mas’ud Akintola, it decries the jungle justice describing it as unIslamic and barbaric urging security agents to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.

The organisation identified mutual love, kindness, tolerance, sincerity  and respect for the belief of others as the panacea to the incessant religious upheavals in the country.

NACOMYO at the same time noted with dismay the fallacy of hasty generalization  employed by a section of the media, bar and public commentators by  condemning all Muslims for the incident.

“In their rush to malign and impugn Islam and the Muslims, they forgot the now famous Imam Abubakar of Plateau State who hid over 200 Christians in his mosque to protect them from attack.They also failed to awaken their consciousness to the 2010 acts of maturity displayed by the Muslim Community of the University of Ibadan despite the provocative and indecorous actions  of a female Christian Law student who attempted to disrupt the Jumaat prayer by preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the peak of the  prayers. The student ,Seun Adegunsoye was not only protected from being lynched but was protected against rustication from the university authorities by the elders of the mosque”.

NACOMYO frowned at the upsurge in the administration of jungle justice across the country and called for balance reportage of  attacks also on Muslims.

“Notable incidences of mob attack abound mostly perpetrated by adherents of other faiths,  among these  are the “Aluu 4 ” at the University of Port  harcourt and the murder of Habeeb Idris in Ijagbo, Kwara  State over a peaceful procession on Hijab.Till date the perpetrators have not been  prosecuted”.

The organisation appealed to law enforcement  agencies to be proactive in curbing criminal acts and ensuring that offenders are prosecuted to serve as deterrent to others.

NACOMYO posited that there is the urgent  need to strengthen the country’s judicial system to be more responsive and prompt in the dispensation of justice.

“This has become  imperative now to instill people’s confidence in the system and prevent future mob action. Justice delayed is justice denied.The citizens of this country are almost unanimous that our court system is too slow in the dispensation of  justice”.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

All Souls Church Men Christian League Marks Golden Jubilee

By Web News 858

The less privileged in the society need to be assisted to relief and give them a sense of belonging.

President, Men Christian League of the All Souls Church, Bodija Estate, Ibadan, Chief Emeka Okoli stated this when he led some members of the group on a courtesy visit to the management of Radio Nigeria Ibadan.

Chief Emeka Okoli explained that the league felt obliged to assist society; hence it had been providing humanitarian assistance to orphanages.

He said the purpose of the visit was to intimate the station about the 50th anniversary of the League which would commence next week.

Reeling out the activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee, Chief Emeka said the group had outlined some vital projects for the enhancement of All Souls Church as well as for the benefits of homes for the less privileged and vulnerable.

He added that that the Bishop of Ibadan Diocese Anglican Communion, the Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa would be on ground to inaugurate the League’s projects.

Responding, the Zonal Director, Radio Nigeria Ibadan, Mrs Bolatito Joseph commended the group for the feat, stressing that its humanitarian gesture and youths oriented programmes would have positive impact on society.

She pledged the readiness of the station to promote the 50th activities of the league.

Mrs Joseph called on other well meaning individuals to emulate the Men Christian League by assisting the less privileged in the society

Lilian Ibomor

Religion

Ajimobi bags Aare Akogun Musulumi Title

By Web News 1159

Son of former Governor of Oyo state, Idris Abiola-Ajimobi says his new title as Aare Akogun Musulumi of Oyo state will spur him to do more for Islam and humanity. 

Mr Abiola-Ajimobi said this after he was conferred with the title by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniyy Abubakri at Ọja Ọba Central Mosque, Mapo, Ibadan.

He promised to positively impact lives and the society with the new status.

Mr Abiola-Ajimobi said he is into politics to contribute to the society, promising to sustain his father’s legacies.

In a remark, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniyy Abubakri urged youths to emulate the good virtues of Idris Ajimobi, saying he had distinguished himself in Islam over the years.

Similarly, a renowned Islamic Preacher, Sheikh Muyideen Bello, who described the late Abiola Ajimobi as a great leader, advised Idris to sustain the legacies of his late father, while also protecting the good name of their family.

Speaking at the event, Governor Umar Ganduje of Kano State expressed confidence that Idris Abiola-Ajimobi would sustain the legacies of his father.

Governor Ganduje advised him to be consistent, fulfill promises, work hard and appreciate the principles of politics.

Dignitaries at the ceremony were wife of former Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Florence, Oyo state Deputy Governor, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan, Senator representing Oyo Central, Teslim Folarin and former Oyo State chairman of All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Akin Oke.

Kayode Banjo

Religion

NACOMYO, OYSAA Urge Muslims to Uphold Lessons of Ramadan

By Web News 666

National Council of Muslim Youth Organisation, NACOMYO, has urged Muslims to steadfastly imbibe the lessons of Ramadan.

This is contained in a statement issued in Ibadan by the Oyo State Coordinator of NACOMYO Alhaji Dawood  Afolabi on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri celebration. 

Alhaji Afolabi enjoined Muslims to maximize the teaching and doctrine of Ramadan by remaining steadfast in piety throughout the year, adding that returning to evil ways could be likened to a dog eating its vomit.

NACOMYO used the opportunity to appreciate the efforts of some individuals towards the propagation of Islam. These include Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo & Delta, Alh.Daud Akinola De-damak, Seriki Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alh.Yekinni Adeojo,  Asiwaju Adinni of Oyo State, Alh.Mutiullah Oladejo Onimalu. 

Similarly, Oyo State Signage and Advertisement Agency, OYSAA  has felicitated Muslims in the state on the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan fasting.

In an Eid-el-Fitr message by the Director-General of the Agency, Hon. Temilola Segun- Adibi said the lesson of self-restraint, sacrifice, charity, fear of Allah, devotion and love of mankind imbibed during the period must continue all year round.

Hon. Segun-Adibi said in the light of the lessons of Ramadan, all stakeholders in the nation’s political landscape should play the game with fear of God, pointing out that all shall give an account of their deeds on the day of reckoning.

He noted that prayer is a potent means of overcoming challenges, thus Muslims should continue to pray fervently to Allah, for peace, security and well-being of the state.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Eid-El-Fitr: Oyo State Mineral Development Agency Felicitates Muslims

By Web News 819

Oyo State Mineral Development Agency has felicitated general Muslims in the state on the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan.

In an Eid-el-Fitr message by the Director-General of the Agency, Mr Oladimeji Oladapo said the lessons of self-restraint, sacrifice, charity, fear of Allah, devotion, and love of mankind imbibed during the period must continue all year round.

Mr Oladapo emphasised the need to consistently pray for our dear country to surmount its security challenges. 

As the nation is on the march to full political activities, he appealed to all stakeholders to play the game with fear of God and be fair to all concerned with the hope that all shall give an account of their deeds on the day of reckoning.

Mr Oladapo stated further that, prayer is the sword of the believers; hence, Muslims are advised to continue to pray fervently to Allah, for peace, security, and well-being of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Maintain all the virtues learnt in Ramadan – Sheik Bamgbola

By Web News 628

Nigerians have been advised to obey Allah’s commandments for a better society.

The Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheik Sa’adallah Bamgbola gave the charge while leading the two-Rakat Eid-el-fitri prayer at the Lantoro Eid Ground Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The Chief Imam reminded the congregation on the need to continuously maintain all the virtues imbibed during the holy month of Ramadan with high regards for the faithfulness of Allah.

The governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun represented by the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Salis Shuaib congratulated the Muslim Ummah for the successful completion of Ramadan and enjoined stakeholders at various levels to join hands with the government to reduce the security challenges facing the society. 

Among the dignitaries that prayed at the Lantoro Eid Ground were the former Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Nigeria High Commissioner to United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Isola, Police Commissioners of Ogun and Osun States among others.

Wale Oluokun

Religion

2023: FG must not interfere with INEC – Most Rev. Okubadejo

By Web News 670

The need for federal government of Nigeria to address the numerous socio-economic challenges confronting the nation forms the focal point of the charge by the Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese of the Anglican Communion, The Most Reverend, Dr Segun Okubadejo at the 8th Synod of the diocese.

The Most Reverend Okubadejo lamented the high level of insecurity, devaluation of currency fueling inflation, and epileptic power supply in the country.

The cleric who condemned the incessant strike by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU and the lackadaisical attitude of federal government to the demands by the union, denounced borrowing culture of government.

The bishop who is also the Synod President encouraged federal government to encourage domestic small scale industries so as to end continued borrowing.

The Most Reverend Okubadejo said government should provide a level playing ground for the 2023 election by ensuring non-interference into the activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The cleric, who commended Oyo State government for prompt payment of workers’ salaries and the implementations of developmental projects in the state, however, challenged the governor over the violent activities of the Park Management System, PMS.

The bishop, who appreciated members of the diocese for his sojourn as the archbishop of three dioceses in Ibadan, urged youths to desist from get-rich-quick syndrome.

In a goodwill message, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Akin Olujinmi said the security crises in the country had reached an alarming state, saying failure to address the menace portend grave danger for the nation.

High point of the event was the launch of the Bishop’s Charge.

The Most Reverend Dr Segun Okubadejo will retire on the 26th of May this year.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Don’t celebrate Eid-el-Fitri with things forbidden by Allah – Sheihk Hasbunallahi

By Web News 633

Muslims on Monday converged on Ajipowo/Customs Junction, Ondo Road in Akure to observe a two-rakat prayer to mark this year’s Eld-el-fitri celebration.

Leading the special Eid prayer, the Chief Imam of Ajipowo-Akure, Sheikh Moshood Hasbunallahi prayed for peaceful co-existence and economic prosperity for the country. 

Imam Hasbunallahi cautioned Muslims against abandoning good deeds they practiced during the just concluded Ramadan.

The Islamic Scholar also advised faithful not to celebrate Salah with what things forbidden by Almighty Allah, saying giving alms and Zakat to the less-privileged were compulsory for those who observed the Ramadan.

Leke Adegbite

Religion

Islamic Scholars Charge Nigerians to Maintain Peace, Harmony

By Web News 693

Chief Imam of Ibadan Hausa Community, Alhaji Saa’d Muhammad wants Muslims to imbibe the lessons learnt during the month of Ramadan and put them into practice in their daily activities.

Alhaji Muhammad who stated this in an Eid Fitr sermon held at the Arcade Government House, Ibadan explained that fasting was prescribed to have the fear of Allah and to abstain from prohibited things and embrace lawful ones.

Also speaking, Secretary to Sarkin Hausawa Abdullah Abubakar advised Muslims to continue to show love and care to one another.

Some Muslims who spoke to Radio Nigeria expressed happiness and gratitude to Allah for the successful completion of fasting during the Holy month of Ramadan and promised to sustain what it had impacted on them.

Fasilat Lawal

Don’t return to your sinful ways – Imam Adewale

Chief Imam, Ifesokan, Arapaja, Odo-Ona Kekere Muslim Community, Ibadan, Imam Mustapha Adewale has advised Muslims not to allow the Ramadan fast to be a waste.

Imam Adewale gave the advice in an interview with Radio Nigeria correspondent after the Eid prayers.

The Chief Imam noted that the fast could be wasted if Muslims go back to all the vices they stopped during Ramadan.

Chief Imam Adewale who listed some of the vices as adultery, drunkenness, backbiting, urged Muslims to continue to shun them.

He added that no Muslim should see himself or herself as bigger, holier or more faithful than the other.

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