Religion

Pastor Tom Temisan of the Christ  Embassy Ministry Centre, Abeokuta has urged Nigerians irrespective of their faiths to intensify prayers for the leaders at various levels in their efforts to address challenges affecting the country.
Pastor Temisan said this during a sermon entitled ” divine intervention” at Edwin’s Hall, Olorombo, Abeokuta.
The religious leader who noted that God is ready to intervene in all situations of the country encouraged the faithful to be specific in their requests before God.
Pastor Temisan expressed optimism that with persistent prayers of the righteous, the nation’s challenges would be a thing of the past.
He stressed the need for Nigerians to be united and shun all forms of secessionist comments.

Segun Folarin

News Religion

Renowned Pastor and Televangelist, Temitope Balogun Joshua is dead.

The Arigidi Akoko, Ondo state born evangelist was reported dead on saturday night after concluding a church programme.

The chief Imam of Arigidi Akoko, Alhaji Salisu Musa who is an uncle to  T.B Joshua confirmed to Positive fm that the news of his demise was true as it was received from Lagos on saturday night

Alhaji Musa who said he was on his way to house of the deceased in Lagos for further arrangements  lamented that the Popular preacher died suddenly without any prior sickness.

Also confirming the development, The monarch of Arigidi Akoko, Oba Yisa olanipekun said he received the news of the sudden death of the illustrous son of the town with shock.

Oba Olanipekun said late T.B Joshua gave global recognition to the town through the works of his Ministry and his philanthropic gestures.

Other members of the deceased’s extended family who spoke with positive fm noted that he would be sorely missed.

Born On June 12, 1963 on Arigidi Akoko in Akoko Northwest local goelvernment area of Ondo state, T.B Joshua is the leader and founder of The Synagogue, Church of All Nations SCOAN, a Christian megachurch that runs the Emmanuel TV television station from Lagos.

Kilani

Religion

A new president for the Nigeria Baptist Convention Rev Israel Akanji has assumed office .
The event which brought together members,friend and family of the church was held at Baptist building, one bola ,Ibadan.
The event also witnessed the assumption into office of the Director of medical and health services for the convention, Prof Emeritus Adewale Akinsola .
Delivering his valedictory message the outgoing president of the Baptist convention who is also the national President of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Reverend Samson Ayokunle urged the incoming officers to be strong for the assignment before them as the responsibility was enormous especially now that the country needed fervent prayers to overcome her challenges.
Reverend Ayokunle encouraged them to focus on God alone as their strength and walk in his fear and might .
Highlight of the programme was presentation of a big Bible by the outgoing president ,Revd Samson Ayokunle to the new president Revd Israel Akanji .

Responding the newly appointed president of the Nigeria Baptist convention Revd Akanji promised to build on the legacies of his predecessors especially in the areas of education and Evangelism

He also said more schools would be established and the work of Evangelism would be total .

He said a polytechnic would soon be set up to increase the access of Nigeria youths to tertiary education.

The new president also promised to employ the electronic media as tools to strengthen evangelism in line with Jesus commission.

On security, Revd Akanji further urged government to ensure that places of worship, institutions of learning were adequately protected .

He said individuals should be allowed to practice their religion without interference so as to allow peaceful coexistence.

Receiving the new president some members of the Nigeria Baptist convention promised to work hand in hand with Revd Israel Akanji in taking the convention to greater heights.

Revd Israel Adelani Akanji was born on August 16, 1961 in sepeteri ,Saki East local Government area of Oyo State and was the pastor in charge of first Baptist church Garki Abuja until his new appointment.

Abisola Oluremi

Religion

Following the myriads of crises bedeviling Nigeria, there is the need for both Muslim faithful and Christians to come together to intensify prayers that would usher Nigeria into greatness.

The cleric in charge of Christ Apostolic Church, C.A.C. Moga, Akanran, Pastor Olu Oluwaniyi stated this while speaking to Radio Nigeria following today’s service.

Pastor Oluwaniyi explained that as part of the corporate social responsibility of the church, a six-day special prayer and an open air revival tagged “I Am Stepping Into The Greatness”  organized to this effect would begin today at Apostle Ayo Babalola International Prayer Mountain, Kure, Akanran Road, Amuloko, Ibadan, at 5’o clock in the evening.

The revival programme according to the cleric has a morning session holding between 9 a.m. and noon, and an evening session, between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. as well as a vigil which will hold daily.

Pastor Oluwaniyi expressed optimism that Nigeria and individual participant would experience a turnaround at the end of the programme.

The cleric who urged Nigerian leaders to rule with the fear of God said special prayer would also be held for Nigeria’s political leaders.

Among the ministers of God expected at the occasion are Prophet Ade Emmanuel, Lady Evangelist Oluwaniyi, Pastor David Ilesanmi, Paul Olayiwola, Funsho Adeniji, and Lady Evangelist Grace Adeboye.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

The federal government has been called upon to come up with a national summit to address issues confronting the country.

The Diocesan Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Communion, The Most Reverend Segun Okubadejo made the call while delivering the Bishop’s Charge of the second session of the Eighth Synod of the diocese.

According to   the Most Reverend Okubadejo, the National Summit if conveyed  would discuss issues of equal rights, justice and equity.

He said for Nigeria to remain an entity, the citizens must not be oppressed and the resources of the nation would be distributed equally.

The Most Reverend Okubadejo stressed the need for all tiers of government to provide enabling environment for small businesses to survive.

Olaolu Fawole/Morenike Tony-Esan

Religion

Christians have been enjoined to remain undaunted as Nigeria continues to struggle with socioeconomic challenges.

The Bishop of the Diocese Of Ijebu, The Right Reverend  Peter Oludipe said this during a sermon with the topic ; ”Doing the impossible”, at the opening service of the second session of the Eight Synod of the Diocese of Ibadan North Anglican Communion held at Cathedral Of Saint Peters, Aremo, Ibadan.

Right Reverend Oludipe explained that, Jesus Christ remain the source of power for Christians to overcome the challenges confronting them

In an interview with newsmen, the President of the synod who is also the archbishop of the diocese of Ibadan North, the Most Reverend Segun Okubadejo said the theme of the synod doing the impossible was chosen in view of the current realities in Nigeria.

The Most Reverend Segun Okubadejo expressed optimism that, Nigeria would overcome the challenges confronting her through relentless prayers of all Nigerians.

High point of the event was the presentation of awards to the distinguished members of the church.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

As Muslims all over the world celebrate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Ogun State Governor, Prince  Dapo Abiodun, has urged the faithful to uphold the lessons and tenets of Ramadan.

In his Eld-el-fitri message, Governor Abiodun called on the Muslim faithful to continue to promote unity and harmony that formed the basis of the holy month.

While noting that Muslims had engaged in the spiritual exercise for the past one month as directed by Allah, the Governor congratulated them for witnessing the end of the fasting and urged them to celebrate El-el-fitri with moderation.

The Governor also urged the Muslims to continue to pray for peace and unity in the country, particularly in the face of security and economic challenges.

He however urged the faithful to observe COVID-19 safety protocols and guidelines during and after the celebration, adding that the pandemic is far from over. 

Bolanle Adesida

Religion

Ramadan in Islamic calendar has come and gone but the acts of fasting and praying must continue as a way of life for faithful.

This was the admonition of Muslims as they commemorated this year’s Eid El Fitri which signifies end of Ramadan

Radio Nigeria Correspondent John Ebiofini, who covered the celebration in some Eid grounds in Akure, now reports.

Religion

As Muslims in Osun join their counterparts across the world to mark the 1442 AH Eid-el-Fitri celebration, the state Governor, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola has urged them not to forget the significance and lessons of the just concluded month of Ramadan. 

Governor Oyetola stated this in his Sallah Message to congratulate the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, and wished them a blessed and peaceful Eid-el-Fitri celebration. 

He prayed Allah to accept all acts of worship and supplications of the Muslim faithful during the glorious month. 

While urging the faithful to celebrate in accordance with COVID-19 protocols, the governor encouraged them to reach out to the less privileged in the society to make them share in the joy and happiness that come with the festival. 

Mr Oyetola said the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri provides a great opportunity for families and friends to come together to pray and share meals as well as gifts among themselves.

He however solicited the support and understanding of the residents in the task of repositioning of the state for industrial and socio economic development.

Wasiu Ajadosu 

Religion

Muslim faithful in Ibadan this morning converged on their various prayer ground to offer prayers making the end of the 2021 Ramadan fasting

At the Muslim Association of Nigeria prayer ground, Joyce B Road, the worshipers were clad in different attires looking radiant.

The worshippers who were led in Islamic songs of appreciation also offered Eidul fitri zakat.

In a charge to the congregation, an Islamic cleric, Alhaji Abdulgafar Hamzat urged the worshippers to sustain the habits of prayer and abide by the injunctions of the holy Quran.

 Similarly, the  Chief Missioner, Ansar Un Deen Society,  Oyo State Chapter, Dr. Bashir Olanrewaju Olanrewaju has enjoined Muslims to exhibit the virtues of peace, tolerance, integrity and humility as exemplified by Prophet Mohammed.

He said this during the Eid El Fitri Prayer at Liberty Road, Ibadan.

Dr Olanrewaju said Muslim faithful should be grateful to Allah for the privilege of life and good health to have observed this year Ramadan fasting.

The cleric urged Muslims to continue to shun sins as they did during the fasting period.

He equally called for prayers against kidnapping and banditry that has constituted a major challenge to the nation.

At Liberty Odo Ona Elewe, the Chief Imam of the Muslim community, Sheik Hamilu Arieshingun called on the faithful to intensify prayers against disintegration of Nigeria.

Sheik Arieshingun made the call shortly after the Eid El Fitri prayers at Liberty Academy Secondary School, Odo Ona Elewe, Ibadan. 

According to the cleric, Nigerians should always be law abiding and pray for those in authority.

Also speaking, the Baba Isale Adinni of Liberty Odo Ona Elewe Muslim Community, Alhaji Kola Animashaun stressed the need for the nation’s political office holders to be more alive to the yearnings of the masses.

Rotimi Famakin/ Olaolu Fawole/Funmi Obagbayegun/

Religion

Muslims have been enjoined to maximise the gains of Ramadan by remaining steadfast in  piety  throughout the year.

This is contained in a statement  in Ibadan by Coordinator, National Council of Muslim Youth Organizations,(NACOMYO) Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi

NACOMYO noted that since heavens did not fall when the believers demonstrated some level of devotions during the month, nothing would happen if same is repeated after the blessed month, adding that returning to  evil ways is like the dog eating its vomit.

The Islamic organisation appealed to the electorate to cast their votes according to their conscience in the forthcoming local government polls while urging candidates to eschew violence and accept results in good faith.

NACOMYO used the opportunity to appreciate the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaj Dawud  Akinola, the the Seriki Musullumi of Yorubaland, Alhaj Yekini Adeojo, the Babasale Musulumi of Ibadan, Alhaji Lateef Oyelade and the Asiwaju Adinni of Oyo State,Alhaji Mutiullah Oladejo (Onimaalu) for sponsorship of Islamic  activities during Ramadan praying to Allah to continue to partner them in all their endeavors.

The organisation prayed for continued progress and peace in the state and the country.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Muslims have been told to continue to seek forgiveness from Allah in order to overcome the challenges facing country.

An Islamic Scholar, Taiwo Abdul Rahman gave the admonition in Ibadan while leading the two rakaah prayer of Eidul fitri of Muslim Students Society of Nigeria, MSSN,  Oyo State area unit .

Ustaz Abdul Rahman explained that the current challenges facing the country required total commitment and repentance from all Nigerians.

He enjoined Muslims to continue observing Islamic injunctions and avoid evil acts.

The Scholar cautioned the agitators for secession to have a rethink, saying that it portends dangers for the country.

Ustaz Abdur Rahman encouraged the Muslims to rejoice as Allah had accepted their devotion during the just concluded Ramadan fast. T

The Islamic scholar admonished the Muslims to intensify Islamic evangelism to rid the country of unholy practices.     

Ustaz Abdur Rahman prayed to Allah to restore peace in some parts of the country and give nation’s leaders sense of direction.   

Nofiu Busari

Religion

The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan, the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji and Chief Imam of Ibadan land, Sheikh Abdulganiy Abubakr Agbotomokekere were among prominent personalities who observed the Eld-Fitri prayer in the town on Wednesday.

It was gathered that the Eid-el-Fitri prayer which was held at Ibadan Eid prayer ground was observed despite a directive issued by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakr.

It would be recalled that the Sultan who doubles as the Amir Musulumi in Nigeria and President-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) had earlier directed that the Eid-el-Fitri prayer be held on Thursday because the crescent of the new month was not sighted on Tuesday.

Despite this instruction, Sheikh Agbotomokeke and other Muslims in Ibadan observed the two Rakat compulsory Eid-el-Fitri prayers which is done to end the Ramadan fast at the Ibadan Central Eid prayer ground in the Agodi area.

Other personalities who attended the Eid prayer included Deputy Chairman Southwest of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Taofeek Arapaja, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Mr. Olawale Abdul-Mojeed Mogbonjubola and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Sustainable Development Goals Mr. Kunle Yusuf.

Spokesman of the Chief Imam, Ustadh Idris Agbotomokekere, said the decision of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland to observe Eid was consequent upon his position as the leader of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ibadanland.

Culled/Daily Post

Religion

The Osun State Government has shut down Inisha Town Central Mosque in Odo-Otin Local Government Area over the crisis surrounding the installation of a new Chief Imam. 

The state government noted it has banned all activities and any central congregation at the Mosque for Eid prayers. 

According report from the community, a traditional chief, Eesa of Inisha, Chief Enoch Ajiboso, slumped and died on 20th December 2020 at the palace while settling a dispute between two parties who were contending for the position of Chief Imam of the community. 

A statement by the Osun State Government, signed by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Adeyanju Binuyo, states that the decision was reached following the inability of the Muslim Community of the town to peacefully install a new Imam for the mosque.

The statement notes that the Mosque has recorded the death of two Imams in quick succession, adding that, as part of efforts to ensure the security of lives and properties in that axis of the state, the Governor directs that the Central Mosque be shut indefinitely to forestall religious or communal crisis. 

Security operatives have been deployed to the town to enforce the closure and ban on Eid Prayers.

The directive will be in place until the reconciliation process towards amicable resolution is concluded.

Adenitan Akinola

Religion

Muslims have been admonished to always remain submissive and obedient to Allah’s injunctions in all conditions to overcome socioeconomic challenges facing humanity.

A reknowned Islamic cleric, Sheik Muhydeen Ajani-Bello gave the admonition while delivering the 2021 Annual Ramadan Lecture organised by Awotan Central Mosque in collaboration with the Ansarudeen Society, Washington D.C., United States of America, held at the Mosque’s premises in Ibadan.

Sheik Ajani-Bello, who attributed the prevalent insecurity and criminal activities bedevilling Nigerians to wrongdoings of some unscrupulous citizens, urged Nigerians to refrain from sinful acts and embrace attitudinal change to enjoy Allah’s bountiful blessings.

The cleric, while calling on Nigerians in diaspora to instil indigenous cultural values in their children, advised them to contribute their quota to national development to change former President Trump’s narrative on Africa.

In a remark, the Chief Imam Awotan Central Mosque, Imam Abdullahi Adesina appreciated Allah and those who contributed to the success of the event.

The programme had several dignitaries in attendance including the Former Commissioner of Special Duties in Oyo State, who is also the Babasale Adinni of Awotan, Alhaji Lasisi Balogun, the Alawotan of Awotan, Oba Daud Omotoso and other Baales in Awotan and its environs.

Sheriffdeen Nasirudeen

Religion

As mother’s day is being celebrated, mothers have advised to be good role models to their children and to the society in general.

Delivering a sermon at Molete Baptist Church,Ibadan The Reverend Edward Alabi said mothers should manifest good virtues to their families and the society at large.

The priest who explained that mothers had roles to play in nation building, also urged them to take up responsibilities to balance the relationship and care among their children and their husbands.

Highlights of the service were the presentation of gifts by the children to their mothers, drama presentation to celebrate the roles of mothers in the society and songs rendition to commemorate this year’s mothers’ day.

Funmilola Obagbayegun

Religion

The Catholic Diocese of Enugu has suspended Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka from church activities for one month due to the priest’s engagement in political matters as against his theological calling.

Mbaka was asked to proceed on suspension with effect from May 3 after being summoned by the diocesan bishop, Callistus Valentine Onaga.

Bishop Onaga had warned that his conduct was smearing the church’s image, the largest of any Christian organization worldwide.

Reverend Mbaka’s has criticized President Muhammadu Buhari administration over the widespread of killings across the nation.

Speaking at the Adoration Ministry in Enugu, Mbaka said it is wrong for the president to maintain grave silence despite the incessant killings in the country.

He accused the government of being behind several killings across the country.

The cleric also spoke about the activities of herders that destroy the farmland of people without any repercussion.

FRCN Abuja

Religion

The 2021 edition of the annual Ramadan lecture of the Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ holds on Thursday 6th of May at the NUJ Press Center along Iwo Road, Osogbo.

A statement by the chairman of the planning committee, Alhaji Moshood Suleiman and the Secretary, Ustaz Abdulraheem Adekilekun indicated that the chief of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Alhaji Musbaudeen Orimadegun is the guest speaker.

The statement noted that the theme of the lecture which will commence by four o’clock in the evening is “Journalism, Fake news and hate speech” while the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdulrasheed Ayotunde Olabomi and the Olororuwo of Ororuwo, Oba Kamorudeen Adeyemi are the royal fathers of the day.

It hinted that Alhaji Rilwan Hussein Yasalam is the father of the Day while Barrister Jiire Ayinla and Dr. Musbau Adelasoye will be the Special Guest of honour and chairman of the occasion respectively.

A business mogul, Alhaja Dasola Alaso is the mother of the day while the Osun State chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Wasiu Ajadosu will be the Chief Host.

The statement enjoined members of the union, chapel leaders, invited guests and Islamic groups and societies to be part of the event and come along with their face masks.

Wasiu Ajadosu

Religion

The rector of the newly established Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Ogbomoso in Oyo State, Dr Taofeeq Abdulhameed has identified moral rebirth as essential for societal reformation. 

He stated this at an annual Ramadan Lecture/ Appeal Fund for the School Mosque organised by Muslim Old Students Association, Lagelu Grammar School, Agugu, Ibadan held at the school hall.

Dr Abdulhameed who until his new appointment was the Chief Imam, Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, said every individual has a role to play in reforming the society through good moral conduct which is the foundation of everlasting reformation.

“Societal reformation starts with you and I. It starts with each individual. Except we reform ourselves morally, the society will be in chaos”.

“To achieve this, there is no need for everybody to be craving for material things all the times. Excessive craving for material things would lead to corruption. We should try as much as possible to emphasize on morals.”

“Where morality is the order of the day, there will be discipline and there will be consideration for others unlike being selfish. Today most of us are self-centered in our daily activities, in everything we do, we considered ourselves first. There is nothing bad in considering oneself first but should not be at the detriment of others”.

Dr Abdulhameed urged Nigerians to appreciate Allah, make firm their belief and control their innate desires as well as greediness for the betterment of the society. 

Chairman on the occasion, former Secretary to Oyo State government, Alhaji Abdulwaheed Olajide represented by Chief Gbade Oyepeju advised youths, especially students to make contentment and uprightness their watchwords for better future.

“As Muslim students, they should not be found wanting in all ramifications of life. They should not join bad gangs like Yahoo boys. Let them use good characters to preach Islam to others.”

In a keynote address, Chairman, Old Students Association, Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan Branch, Alhaji Kola Animasahun pointed out that the lecture was a means of guidance to the upcoming generation, urging parents to spread the message to their children.

Earlier, the Amir, Muslim Old Students Association, Lagelu Grammar School, Branch, Dr Ibraheem AbdHameed said the lecture was put in place in a bid to see how the society could be better from its current troubled state. 

The theme of the lecture is “Societal Reformation: My role as a Muslim”.

Sherifdeen Nashirdeen

Religion

Civil servants have been urged to cultivate the habit of savings while still in active service in order to enjoy life in retirement.

 A guest lecturer, Mr. Ganiyu Abideen stated this during a Ramadan lecture organized by Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Oyo State Command entitled: “Planning towards Retirement”.

Mr Abideen said gone were the days when retired persons used to rely on government for life after service, hence the need for individuals to start planning towards their retirement by gradual savings for various investments that would sustain them throughout.

He stated further that pensioners should be wary of fraudsters who are funds of introducing dubious business to pensioners in order to dupe them of their gratuities.

Earlier, NSCDC commandant in Oyo State, Mr Iskilu Akinsanya said the topic on plans for retirement became imperative for its officers and men to have a rethink on how their future would be after retirement while they were still in active service.

Mr Iskilu Akinsanya noted that the officers should involve in cooperative and other forms of contributing groups in order to save for the raining day.

The Oyo NSCDC commandant used the occasion to warn criminally minded people to desist all forms of criminal activities as the command had declared a zero tolerance against crime.

He added that members of the public should also partner the corps by giving out useful information to aid the corps in decisively fighting against criminals.

Rasheeda Makinde

Religion

Muslims have been advised to cultivate act of giving to help the vulnerable in the society, live above board and spend their wealth to propagate Islam.

The guest speaker at this year’s Gold FM Ramadan lecture organised at the broadcasting house, the chief imam of Federal Polytechnic Ede, Doctor Taofik Abdulhammed gave the advice.

Represented by Alfa Saheed Murtadha,  Doctor Abdulhammed said it was rewarding for human beings help the vulnerable, while catering for their immediate, extended and nuclear family, because Allah always held cheerful givers in high esteem.

He maintained that Muslims should not allow unguided utterances to make their love offering unacceptable, imploring them to rather use soothing words to raise the hope of less privileged if they were unable to meet their needs.

The General Manager of Gold FM, Mr. Adedamola Tinubu, described the annual Ramadan lecture organised by the station as a channel to acquire more knowledge about Islam and move chose to Allah.

Mr. Tinubu said the station would not relent in promoting religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence among the populace.

The chief imam of Gold FM, Ilesa , Sheik Shehu Oladele, in a vote of thanks, expressed appreciation to those who donated funds and materials to support the station’s central mosque which is under construction.

Highlights of the event were fund-raising for the completion of the mosque and turbaning of some eminent Muslim faithful in recognition of their contributions to the development of Islam.

Isaac Hastrup

Religion

An Islamic missionary, Mr Olusola Ogunkanmi wants Government at all levels to enforce relevant laws and pool resources towards addressing the growing challenges of insecurity in the country.

Mr Ogunkanmi, who stated this while delivering the 2021 Ramadan lecture organised by Radio Nigeria Paramount FM, Abeokuta also called for more efforts to boost morale and patriotic values among the people.

The religious leader maintained that unemployment, poor orientation, insincerity and loss of ethical values were some of the major factors responsible for the growing security challenge in the country. 

Also, the chairman of the occasion, engineer Tajudeen Adisa Olori who described Islam as a religion of peace, called on well-meaning Muslims not  to limit the sponsorship of lectures and sermons to Ramadan period.

Earlier, the General Manager, Paramount FM, Alhaji Adeniyi Odekunle  described Ramadan lecture as a tool to revive souls and reminded the

faithful to always uphold the tenets of the religion.

Alhaji Odekunle expressed gratitude to the people of Ogun State for supporting Radio Nigeria and thanked the almighty God for the success of the event.

Omolara Adasofunjo

Religion

An Islamic missionary, Mr Olusola Ogunkanmi wants Government at all levels to enforce relevant laws and pool resources towards addressing the growing challenges of insecurity in the country.
Mr Ogunkanmi who stated this while delivering the 2021 Ramadan lecture organised by Radio Nigeria Paramount FM, Abeokuta also called for more efforts to boost moral and patriotic values among the people.
The religious leader maintained that unemployment, poor orientation, insincerity and loss of ethical values were some of the major factors responsible for the growing security challenge in the country.
Also, the chairman of the occasion, engineer Tajudeen Adisa olori who described Islam as a religion of peace called on well-meaning Muslims not to limit the sponsorship of lectures and sermons to Ramadan period.
Earlier, the general manager, Paramount FM, Alhaji adeniyi odekunle described Ramadan lecture as a tool to revive souls and reminded the Muslim faithful to always uphold the tenets of the religion.
Alhaji odekunle expressed gratitude to the people of Ogun state for supporting Radio Nigeria and thanked the almighty God for the success of the event.

Omolara Adasofunjo

Religion

Nigerians have been advised to cement the unity of the nation through cooperation and tolerance for one another.

An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Taofeeq Akeugbagold gave the advice while delivering the 2021 annual Ramadan lecture of the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, BCOS, Central Mosque, Orita Bashorun, Ibadan.

Sheik Akeugbagold urged Nigerians to take cue from united efforts of honeybees and termites, which make arduous task easier for them to foster unity in Nigeria.

The Islamic scholar called on intellectuals and leaders to prevail on agitators of secession to avert disintegration and its accompanying chaos.

Sheikh Akeugbagold, who enjoined politicians against ethnicity and nepotism, stressed that justice, equality and fairness are antidotes to disunity.

Sheikh Akewugbagold futher called on government at all levels to be focus and just in their dealings with the citizenry for the progress of the country.

He advised government to take seriously the issue of youths empowerment in the country.

“Another problem of the country is youths unemployment, Government must address the issue of youths unemployment, train them and empower them for them to be self sustenance.

“Government must put the interest of the masses at heart and give them their dues without being sentimental,” he said.

Sheikh Akewugbagold called on Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to rescind his decision on the planned demolition of the staff quarters of the state Broadcasting Corporation (BCOS) as such monument should be preserved for future generations to appreciate. 

Chairman on the occasion and Arole Iba Oluyole, Alhaji Nureni Akanbi called on journalists to be truthful and unbiased in their reportage to reduce tension and ensure peaceful nation.

Earlier, the Chairman, MMPN, Oyo State, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi noted that the call for secession is an ill wind that blows no one any good, pointing out that the topic of the lecture “Fanning the Ember of Disunity: Islam to the Rescue ” was to proffer Islamic solutions to the scourge.

In a goodwill message, the Acting Zonal Director, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station, Mrs Bolanle Owoyemi, represented by the Assistant Director Procurement, Mr. Mutahir Akanni urged Nigerians to be law abiding, especially on Covid-19 preventive measures.

The programme, which featured presentation of awards to three distinguished Muslims, the immediate past Zonal Director, FRCN, Ibadan, Alhaji Muhammad Bello, the CEO Bolade Travels, Alhaja Sidiqat Aderibigbe and a posthumous award to the late Iyalode of Ibadanland, Alhaja Aminat Abiodun had in attendance dignitaries including the General Manager, Premier FM 93.5, Alhaji Bashir Omotoso and the Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor on Economic Matter, Professor Musibaudeen Babatunde.

Nashirdeen Sherifdeen

Religion

Five candidates have emerged winners in the annual memorial quranic competition organized for late civil servant and businessman, Ilyas Owonikoko.
The event held in Iseyin, was keenly contested earlier by 17 participants out of which 10 candidates emerged for the last round of the competition.

The three of the five winners including Abdulrafiu Usamah, Walilulai Hamzat and Maryam Iyanda said their constant Quran recitation, prayers and determination paved the way for them.
In a sermon, the Vice Principal Anwarul Islam Grammar School, Iseyin who is also an Islamic scholar, Dr Ridwan Bello said the competition heralded the good legacies and impactful life lived by the deceased.
While commending the family and the wife of Late Ilyas Owonikoko for sustaining the annual quranic competition, Dr Bello encouraged the organizer to develop broader vision for the programme as it remained valuable in the Islamic religion.

Wife of the deceased, Alhaja Khadijat Owonikoko said the programme had in no small measure enabled the family to survive numerous hurdles.
While speaking through his younger brother, Engineer Teslim Owonikoko, Alhaji Abdul-Jeleel Owonikoko, S.A.N, who is the sponsor of the programme promised to continue.
Highpoint of the event was a Fidau prayer led by Alhaji Waheed Shittu.
Ilyas Owonikoko quranic competition started in 2019 in memory of the deceased where cash and other consolation prizes were given to participants.

Rotimi Famakin