Religion

You will account for all your deeds – Cleric Charges Public Office Holders

By Web News 769

An Islamic cleric, Sheik Muideen Bello says death is an inevitable end and every soul shall taste death at apportion time.

Sheik Bello stated this in Ilobu, at the Fidau prayer of Osun deputy chief of staff, general administration, Mr Adejare Adebisi who died after a protracted illness.

The Islamic scholar urged the family of the deceased, llobu community and all people of the state including government officials to see the death of the late deputy chief of staff as the will of God and lessons for all to leave behind good legacies.

He urged public office holders to imbibe honesty in their ways like the late Adebisi to foster progress and development in the state.

He charged Nigerians to be diligent, selfless in rendering services to government and humanity with a message that they would account for their deeds in the hereafter.

Some government officials at the Fidau prayer described the late politician as instrumental to the successes achieved by the current administration in the state, saying that his death portends huge loss to the state.

Osun State Governor, Mr Gboyega Oyetola was represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the state government, Prince Wole Oyebamiji. 

Wasiun Ajadosu 

Religion

Don’t let Covid-19 stop you from worshiping God – Reverend Akinlade

By Web News 689

Every Christian has the responsibility of service unto God irrespective of denomination.

Senior Pastor, Foursquare Gospel Church, Bodija, Ibadan, Reverend Williams Akinlade gave the charge during an interview with Radio Nigeria.

Reverend Akinlade who said obedience to God attracts blessings urged the faithful to ensure righteousness always.

Reverend Akinlade, however, advised Christians not to relent in worshipping God at their different homes, considering the time we are in, as it is a phase which would pass very soon.

Taiwo Akinola

Religion

COVID-19: Ekiti Committee to Work out Modalities on Reopening of Worship Centres

By Web News 644

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has set up a committee to work out modalities on the reopening of worship centres.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, Dr Fayemi emphasized that his administration would not do anything to jeopardize the safety and health of worshippers in opening churches and mosques.

The Committee, which has one week to submit its report, had members from the government side to include Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Mojisola Yaya-Kolade; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Foluso Daramola; Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaji Ayodele Jinadu; the Head of Service, Mrs. Peju Babafemi and Director General, Office of Transformation, Strategy and Delivery, Professor Mobolaji Aluko.

Christian leaders on the committee include the state CAN Chairman,  Reverend Father Peter Olowolafe, PFN Chairman, Bishop Clement Abifade and Reverend Joshua Orikogbe while the Muslim leaders in the Committee include the state President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Yakubu Sanni, Alhaji Hamed  Abdulsalami and Professor Musa Abdul Raheem.

Oriola Afolabi

Religion

Ogun to Adopt Recommendations of Committee on Reopening of Religious Centres

By Web News 637

Ogun State Governor, Prince  Dapo Abiodun says the recommendations of a subcommittee on the reopening of religious centres in the state will be adopted by next week to regulate the operations of religious institutions across the state. 

Governor Abiodun announced this while briefing newsmen at his Oke Mosan Abeokuta office.

Governor Abiodun explained that the subcommittee comprising of religious leaders and government’s representatives had been mandated to come up with guidelines for gradual reopening of religious activities latest by Friday 12th June. 

The Governor expressed the hope that the Committee’s outcome would help to reactivate the system with effect from Friday, June 19th, 2020.

Governor Abiodun pointed out that a task force would be set up to monitor and ensure compliance with the agreed guidelines for the religious activities in the state, noting that violators would be sanctioned. 

The governor reiterated that all  existing guidelines to flatten the curve of the virus, including total lockdown on weekends and night curfew between 10pm to 4am remained sacrosanct.

Bolanle Adesida

Religion

Gov. Oyetola Gives Nod to Reopening of Worship Centres

By Web News 663

Governor Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State has directed reopening of worship centres across the state for two weeks.

This followed separate meetings he held with Christian and Muslim leaders on guidelines for reopening of churches and mosques across the state for two weeks.

The governor stated that the decision to reopen worship centers partially was in response to the request by religious leaders and the resolve of the Federal Government to lift ban on religious activities.

He said the state government had prepared some guidelines that must be followed in order to forestall possible spread of the virus as a result of the reopening, adding that further actions by the government would be determined by compliance level to the guidelines.

Mr Oyetola explained that only regular church services of not more than one hour and maximum of two services would be allowed, while Jumat service including sermon and prayers must not exceed 20 minutes.

He said vulnerable individuals such as those from age 65 and above and people with underlying ailments are to continue worshipping at their respective homes.

Mr Oyetola also directed that all church and mosques premises be fumigated to ensure that the worship environments were free of virus and other infectious diseases

Gold FM

Religion

Osun to Work on Modalities for Re-opening of Worship Centers

By Web News 663

Osun state government is set to meet religious leaders across the state to work out modalities for re-opening of worship centers.

This follows the new set of directives and guidelines issued by the federal government in a new phase of the easing of lockdown.

The state Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mrs Funke Egbemode made this known to newsmen in Osogbo.

She said that meeting with religious leaders became imperative to ensure proper implementation of the new set of guidelines.

Mrs Egbemode commended the patience of the state residents so far and urged them not to be too anxious to assert the liberties contained in the new guidelines so as not to lose the gains of the last few weeks.

Religion

Gov. Akeredolu Gives Nod for Resumption of Guided Religious Activities

By Web News 660

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has directed the resumption of guided religious activities throughout the State

The governor while briefing newsmen in Akure, however, said the worship centers would only be opened for two times in a week, Sundays for churches, Fridays for Mosques while weekly meetings were to remain suspended.

Other guidelines included proper and compulsory use of facemasks by worshippers, three people sitting arrangement on a pew alongside provision of running water with soap and sanitizer while the premises must be decontaminated before and after the services.

Governor Akeredolu, who expressed belief in divine intervention towards overcoming the Covid-19 challenge, warned that any church or mosque found violating the rules would be closed down indefinitely.

Olorunferanmi Odofin

Religion

Most Rev. Okubadejo Wants Ban on Religious Activities Lifted, Urges Employers not to Lay off Workers

By Web News 743

Arch Bishop, Ibadan Province, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, The Most Reverend Segun Okunbadejo has called on the government  to lift ban on religious activities to enable faithful to seek the face of the lord to end coronavirus infection.

He made the call while speaking with news men in Ibadan over the prevalence of the deadly virus world over and subsequent ban on religious activities.

“We have been praying in our different houses, we need to come together to pray and that is why we are telling the government that the lockdown should be stopped at this point to allow people to come together and seek the face of the Lord in prayers and turn away from iniquities. This is what everyone should do all over the world. Allow Christians, Muslims and traditionalists to go and seek the face of whatever God they believe in”, Okunbadejo stated.

The Most Reverend Okunbadejo who is also Bishop Ibadan North Diocese noted that the disease was not manmade but the evidence that God was angry with mankind hence the need for fervent prayers.

“We are very sinful, this world is very sinful, you can imagine a father having carnal knowledge of his biological children, this is unthinkable. We talk about gayism, lesbianism and those people sleeping with animals. All these including murders and other crimes are all over the place. Countries of the world are busy stock piling arsenals and nuclear weapons to fight one another and God is saying you are doing things in your own way I will checkmate you. I want to believe that’s why God allowed corona virus “he said.

The cleric also used the occasion to implore employers of labor not to lay off workers because of the economic hardship experienced due to the pandemic but work out human friendly modalities to sustain workers during and after the pandemic.

The Most Reverend Okunbadejo equally expressed worry on alleged influx of foreigners into the southwestern states, calling on the government to beef up security to check any potential threat.

“We thought those coming to the South are Almajiris trying to make ends meet, only to discover that it was not so because of various discoveries. They are covered under Tomatoes, vegetables etc . These are grown up men who do not speak any other language than Hausa and some other languages that people don’t understand. This means they are not even from the North”, The Arch Bishop added.

He advocated the need to adequately empower Amotekun corps to strengthen security in the Southwest.

 Arch Bishop Okunbadejo also lauded Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde for steering the affairs of the state aright since inception about a year ago.

Adedayo Adelowo

Religion

Imam Orunsolu was an exceptional and accommodating leader – Professor Balogun

By Web News 1830 Post a comment

The remains of the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Alhaji Liadi Orunsolu have been buried with a call on the faithful to live an exemplary life worthy of emulation.

An Islamic scholar, Professor Kamaldeen Balogun who made the call in a sermon at the Isale Igbehin residence of the late Chief Imam described the late Chief Imam of Egbaland as an exceptional leader who accommodated all, regardless of age or status.

In a message, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state said the late chief imam lived a worthy and highly commendable life.

Represented by his deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Governor advised Muslims in the state to immortalize the religious leader by embracing the virtues of love, peace and good neighbourliness.

Former governor of the state, Ibikunle Amosun who described the death of Alhaji Orunsolu as painful, noted that Egbaland, and Ogun State had lost a respected religious leader and a renowned Islamic scholar. 

Senator Amosun pointed out that Alhaji Orunsolu maintained effective leadership as the Chief Imam of Egbaland and President of League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State and equally provided wise counsel to Muslims in the entire Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States. 

Speaking on the life and times of the deceased, one of his children, Alhaji Afiz Orunsolu said his late father championed the course of promoting peace, irrespective of religious or tribal differences.

The late Chief Imam who died in the wee hours of Tuesday at age 98 had served in that capacity for 17 years after succeeding the late Imam Shittu Bello Okeoro in 2003.

Olusegun Folarin

Religion

Gov. Abiodun Mourns Chief Imam of Egbaland, Orunsolu

By Web News 885

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has mourned the death of the President, League of Imams and Alfas in the State and Chief Imam of Egbaland, Alhaji Liadi Orunsolu.

In a statement, Governor Abiodun condoled with the people of Egbaland, the State and the Muslim Ummah in general on the death of Alhaji Orunsolu.

The governor described Alhaji Orunsolu’s death as a great loss to the state and noted that the late Chief Imam spent his days praying and teaching values and precepts of the Quran.

Governor Abiodun Said that the late Chief Imam of Egbaland was unpretentious about what he preached, and the fact that he died after the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan and Eid-el-Fitri celebration at the age of 99 indicated that Allah was pleased with him.

He pointed out that Alhaji Orunsolu lived a worthy and highly commendable life and urged all Muslims in the state to immortalise him by embracing the virtues of love, peace, and good neighborliness.

He prayed that Allah would grant the soul of the departed good rest in Aljannah Firdaus and comfort his family.

Bolanle Adesida

Religion

Eid-el-Fitr: Ogun Govt Enforces Strict Lockdown

By Web News 736

In a bid to control the spread of COVID-19 in Ogun state, Muslim faithful were unable to gather at the Eid ground yesterday to perform the usual two Rakah prayer.

The roads in Abeokuta the Ogun state capital were deserted with the presence of security men and women enforcing the lockdown.

Only few vehicles on essential duties were seen on the roads while residents stayed in their various houses.

It is also expected that the residents perform their religious activities individually as part of the measures to stop the spread of Coronavirus in the state.

Wale Oluokun

Religion

Oyo Muslims Comply with Home Observance of Eid-el-Fitri Prayer

By Web News 879 Post a comment

Following the directive of the President, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa ad Abubakar that Eid-el- Fitri prayer should be held at individual home, the compliance with the directive was high in Ibadan as most Muslim faithful observed the prayers in their various homes.

Our correspondent, who visited most of the prayer grounds, report that none of the worshippers and clerics were on ground to observe the prayer.

  During Radio Nigeria’s visit to the ground situated at Bodija Bus Stop along Iwo Road, the usual traffic jam that often characterize the prayer period was absent as few worshippers who reside within the mosque observed the prayer.

At the Agodi Prayer Ground as well as Government House Prayer Ground allocated for Sabo and Hausa community was ghost of itself as the main entrance to the ground were under locked.

Some Muslim faithful, who spoke to Radio Nigeria, attributed the development to the directives given to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.

In an interview, the Garkuwa of Ibadanland, Alhaji Garuba Danjuma enjoined Muslims to imbibe the lessons learnt during the Ramadan fast.

He implored government to embark on economic recovery and assist the less privileged in the country.

Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Eid-el-Fitr: President Buhari Felicitates with Nigerians

By Web News 669

President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Muslims to keep their spirits high, in spite of the Coronavirus pandemic, which has placed a heavy toll on the people’s spiritual, and socio-economic lives.

In his Sallah message to Muslims on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, the President notes that for the first time in recent years, the pandemic has put a damper on what would otherwise have been a time of celebration for Muslim faithful to mark the end of the Ramadan Fast.

According to President Buhari, this year’s fasting period has been particularly challenging for Muslims, who had to forego the usual congregational prayers and the recitation and interpretation of the Glorious Qur’an, as well as the performance of the Lesser Hajj, the Umrah.

While he notes the difficulty in giving up many of these spiritual obligations, President Buhari says the temporary ban on gatherings is imperative to limiting the spread of the disease.

He commends Nigerians for their sacrifices and co-operation in the enforcement of the social distancing guidelines, despite the inconveniences the tough measures imposed have brought on them.

President Buhari enjoins the citizenry to sustain their co-operation as no government will intentionally impose tough and demanding measures on its citizens if it has alternative choices.

The President says he is aware that the prolonged lockdown measures have badly affected businesses and other means of livelihood of Nigerians, assuring however that the measures will be reviewed periodically to ease the increasing hardship on the people.

He encourages well-to-do citizens to continue helping their needy neighbours with the token they have to help Nigeria come out of the pandemic stronger and more united.

President Buhari calls on Muslims to consider this year’s Eid event as an occasion for sober reflection rather than celebration, due to the long shadows of gloom that the pandemic has cast on people’s lives.

He prays Allah to ease the hardship among the people as they struggle hard to flatten the curve, while wishing all Nigerians Eid Mubarak.

Religion

Eid-el-Fitri: Muslim Media Practitioners Urge Faithful to be Cautious

By Web News 770

Muslims have been urged to celebrate this year’s Eidul-Fitri with caution amidst the coronavirus pandemic. 

This is contained in a statement in Ibadan by Chairman, Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi. 

Alhaji Fasasi enjoined the faithful to be vigilant and celebrate the end of Ramadan fasting with moderation while they should observe Eidul-Fitri prayers at home and obey other measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

He called on Muslims to intensify supplications during the Eidul-Fitri prayer to bring an end to the pandemic which has affected open worship and has also brought untold hardship to people worldwide.

Alhaji Fasasi enjoined the faithful to sustain the good virtues such as love, good character, sacrifice and charity exhibited during Ramadan now that the holy month is over. 

He admonished Muslims to continue to imbibe the culture of peaceful co-existence as good relationship is a duty that Muslims owe others irrespective of their religious affiliation, stressing that one of the conditions for a faithful to be a true believer is to wish for his neighbours what he wished for himself.

The MMPN Chairman urged the Muslim philanthropists to continue to sponsor Islamic programmes even after Ramadan as the messages have positive impacts on the faithful.

Rilwan Fasasi

Religion

Sultan Declares Sunday, May 24 as Eid-el-Fitri

By Web News 737

The President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has announced that the Ramadan fast would continue Saturday.

In a statement by the Chairman of Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of Sultanate Council in Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Junaidu, on Friday says this was followed by the report of the National Moonsighting Committee of the NSCIA stating that no moon was sighted in the country on Friday.

It explained the Ramadan fast would reach 30 this year as against preparations earlier made by Muslim faithful to celebrate Eid-el-Fitri on Saturday in Nigeria.

The statement quoted the Sultan as declaring Sunday, May 24, as the 1st day of Shawwal 1441AH and the beginning of Eid-el-Fitri celebration in the country.

“This means that Friday, May 22 is the 29th day of Ramadan 1441AH. Therefore, Saturday May 23, is the 30th day of Ramadan 1441AH.

“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has declared Sunday, May 24, as the first day of Shawwal 1441AH.”

Eid-el-Fitr is a Muslim holiday marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

FRCN Abuja

Religion

Gov. Akeredolu Reopens Markets for Eid-el-Fitri Shopping

By Web News 693

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has approved the reopening of major and community markets throughout Ondo State for Saturday, May 22nd 

The approval, which subsists only for that Saturday is to enable Muslim faithful in the state engage in shopping for the Eid-il-Fitri festivities.

The Governor, however, maintained that the earlier order restricting business and market activities to Tuesdays and Thursdays in the state resumes immediately after the Saturday

Olorunferanmi Odofin

Religion

Ramadan: Gov. Makinde Congratulates Muslims

By Web News 671

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has congratulated Muslims in the state on the successful completion of the month-long Ramadan fasting.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa says Governor Makinde regretted that Muslims in the state and across the country could not observe Eid-el-Fitri prayer this year the usual way.

The governor said the situation should be seen as part of the sacrifice everyone has to make this time.

He expressed gratitude to Muslims and residents of the state for remaining steadfast despite the situation imposed on the state by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The governor equally urged them to use the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri to pray for the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Governor Makinde called for the continued support and cooperation of the Muslim Ummah and all residents of the state in adhering to the COVID-19 protocol.

He promised to continue to make life more meaningful to all residents of the state, reiterating his administration’s commitment to the socio-economic transformation and the infrastructural revolution currently going on in the state.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Eidul-Fitri Celebration amidst Coronavirus Pandemic

By Web News 1035

For almost a month now, Muslims all over the world have embarked on Ramadan fasting.

The end of the spiritual exercise is marked with Eidul-Fitri celebration which is preceded with 2 Rakaat prayer which is observed in the morning with a large congregation at open grounds. 

In this report, Ridwan Fasasi examines observance of Eidul-Fitri amidst the coronavirus pandemic. 

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Alhaji Ajani Bello Charges Muslims on Ethical Practices

By Web News 994

Muslim faithful have been told to adhere strictly to ethical practices at all times.

Prominent Islamic preacher, Alhaji Muhideen Ajani Bello stated this in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Ibadan.

Alhaji Bello stressed that Muslims must be of Good conduct at all as they witness the end of the Ramadan fast.

Alhaji Bello noted that Muslim faithful must not be find wanting irrespective of any period they find themselves.

Lillian Ibomor

Religion

MUSWEN Urges Southwest Muslims to Observe Eid-Fitri Prayer at Home

By Web News 926

Muslims in the Southwest have been urged to plan to observe the Eid Fitri prayer that marks the end of Ramadan at home.

This is contained in a statement in Ibadan by Executive  Secretary,  Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria,  MUSWEN, Professor Muslih Yahya.

Professor Yahya said since the possibility of relaxing the suspension of religious activities in the region was slim, praying Eid at prayer grounds would not be possible hence the faithful should observe the prayer at home.

“From the look of things, it is not likely that the current social distancing regulations put in place by governments in the States in the South West of Nigeria, necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic would be relaxed by Eid day, consequently it is not likely that observance of Eid prayers at the Eid Prayer grounds would be possible”.

He said the two Rakaat prayer of Eid that would be observed at home should follow the same process as observed at Eid prayer ground except that there would not be sermon at the end of the prayer. 

 “It is not forbidden for an individual or the family to observe at home the two-Rak’ah Nafl (supererogatory) Eid prayer in the following manner, excluding only the Khutbah (sermon)”.

The MUSWEN Executive Secretary enjoined Muslims to put on their best dresses on the Eid day as recommended by Prophet Muhammad and stay safely at home to mark the day with their families.

All Muslims are urged to put on their best dresses on the Eid day as recommended by authentic traditions of the Prophet (SAW), but STAY SAFELY AT HOME marking the Eid day with the family, in view of the movement restrictions necessitated by the pandemic”.

He noted that giving of Zakatul Fitri, alms to the poor in form of foodstuffs would start from the eve of the Eid day and would end before the prayer.

“On the eve of the Eid day or after the Fajir prayer of the Eid Day and shortly before the usual time for the Eid Prayer, Zakat el-Fitri is expected to be given out to the poor on behalf of EVERY member of the family, from infant to the oldest person, male or female”.

“The measure of Zakat el-Fitr per person is four measures of the “mudun-Nabiy”  (the Prophetic measure) which has been approximated to about 14 usual milk-tins known in most markets of South West Nigeria, in grains popular for food in the area  such as rice, beans, maize and  millet or other staple food item such as gari. Rice and gari however seem to have a great deal of acceptance in South West Nigeria”.

Professor Yahya called on Muslims in the Southwest to join the rest of the Ummah in Nigeria in looking out for the crescent of Shawwal on Friday evening and wait  for a formal announcement of the exact day of Eid by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar. 

“Muslims in the South West should join the rest of the Ummah in Nigeria in looking out for the crescent of Shawwal shortly before Maghrib of Friday 29th Ramadan 1441, equivalent to 22nd May 2020, communicate any sighting to MUSWEN on 08033579545 or 08096898432 but wait patiently for a formal announcement of the exact day of Eid by the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. Allah says: “And hold fast to the rope of Allah, all of you together, and be not disunited….” (Qur’an 3:103)”.

He added that despite the atmosphere of the COVID-19 pandemic in which Ramadan fasting was observed, Almighty  Allah deserved to be thanked for His mercy and urged Muslims to celebrate the Eid with caution and vigilance.

“Indeed the Ramadan of this year has been extremely challenging for the Ummah. It has been the will of Allah to test how resolute and determined we can be in seeking to reach one another as one Ummah and try to please Him, Subhanahu wa Ta’ala as our Creator. A reflection over the circumstances and the atmosphere of the COVID-19 pandemic would show that the Ummah has a great deal of reasons to thank Allah for His mercy. Therefore, we have every reason to celebrate the Eid to the best of our ability, but with a great deal of caution and vigilance, and with Eman (faith) and Taqwa (being mindful of Allah). We beseech Him SWT, to overlook our human inadequacies and have more mercy on us”

Ridwan Fasasi 

Religion

Ramadan: Cleric Urges Faithful to Maximize Remaining Period

By Web News 772

Muslim faithful have been told to maximize the remaining nights of Ramadan for Lailatul Qodri which is capable of addressing Covid-19 pandemic ravaging the world.

A renowned Islamic scholar Sheik Muideen Ajani Bello stated this during 2020 ramadan lecture organized by Radio Nigeria Ibadan.

According to Sheik Ajani Bello, Muslims should avoid sleeping too much at night at this important period as prayers said during the period could bring an end to covid-19 pandemic.

Earlier, Zonal Director, FRCN Ibadan, Alhaji Mohammed Bello said to comply with government’s directive to contain the spread of coronavirus, the public lecture was limited to Studio One, while the lecture would later be broadcast.

Alhaji Bello urged all to continue to adhere to safety health practices at this challenging period.

Click to listen

Lilian Akinlosotu

Religion

Ban on religious gathering subsists – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 1513

Oyo State Government says the ban on the religious gathering still subsists in the state.

Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed this while addressing journalists on the emerging situations on the coronavirus pandemic at the Agodi Government House, Ibadan.

The governor, who explained that the state had received different requests from religious leaders to ease the ban, said government would meet the leaders this week on the modalities to lift the order based on experts’ advice.

Governor Makinde, however, said the state would unveil the identity of the company with thirty-eight confirmed Covid-19 cases in Ibadan Southwest for those who visited the place to present themselves for test.

Also, a member of the Task Force and Coordinator of the state isolation centres, Professor Temitope Alonge reaffirmed the treatment procedures and regiment for patients at the centres.

He added that within 48 hours, twenty five patients had been discharged in the state isolation and treatment centres.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Muslim Media Watch Lauds PMB over Prof. Gambari’s Appointment

By Web News 680

Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for choosing Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari as the new Chief of Staff.

This is contained in a statement by the National Coordinator, Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria.

The statement notes that the choice is ideal and most appropriate in view of the calibre of the person of Professor Gambari. 

It explains that apart from being an International Scholar, Public Administrator and Economist, Professor Gambari’s International Diplomatic experience would further add values to governance in Nigeria.

The statement urges the new chief of staff to use his office to rekindle the hope of patriotic Nigerians here and abroad in the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Rilwan Fasasi

Religion

COVID-19: Muslim Coalition Donates Relief Packages to 500 People in Oyo State

By Web News 965

Five hundred less privileged people in Oyo State have benefitted from relief packages from Muslim Coalition against COVID-19.

The items distributed are Rice ,Beans and Garri.

The beneficiaries are from ten local governments in the State and were coordinated by five Muslim organisations from the coalition.

 The local governments include Afijio, Atiba, Ibarapa, Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Ibadan North, Ibadan North West, Ibadan South West, Akinyele and Lagelu. 

The five coordinatimg organisations are Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria MSSN,  Dawah Front, The Muslim Congress TMC, Federation  of Muslim Women  Association of Nigeria FOMWAN and  Al-Muminat.

At the distribution of the packages in Ibadan to the organisations for onward transfer to the beneficiaries, Oyo State Coordinator of the group, Alhaji Abideen Ladeji said the palliative was to reduce the hardship on the people during the lockdown caused by ravaging coronavirus pandemic. 

“The beneficiaries are basically the poor ,irrespective of religion,  people with disabilities, these are people who are mostly affected by this lockdown due to coronavirus.”. 

“We are  starting this pilot distribution in Abuja, Lagos, Rivers ,Oyo and Osun states and we have spent over N5 million for the pilot scheme”.

Alhaji Ladeji said the coaliton which consists of over 50 organisations targeted N500 million to be spent on the vulnerable throughout Nigeria, stressing that they would come back to Oyo State to cover more local governments.

One of the beneficiaries,Mr Tijani Abdullah, who is a physically challenge person, commended the gesture, saying it was timely.

“A lot of physically challenge persons are just there at home suffering from hunger at this period of COVID-19 pandemic luckdown, we really appreciate ithis gesture.”

Another beneficiary, Mrs Oyedele Afsat , also commended the coaliton, saying things are very difficult in this period.

She called on government at all levels to come to the assistance of the less privilege in the society. 

Commenting at the pilot centre in Lalupon for Lagelu Local Government, the Chief Imam of Lalupon, Shelkh Waliyulah Otegbeye, said the palliatives would make relief in term of difficulty faced by the less privilege in the society.

Ridwan Fasasi.