Religion

MMPN Urges Muslims to Pray for Peace as Ramadan Begins

By Web News 568

Muslims have been enjoined to dedicate the month of Ramadan to prayers to Allah to enable the country to surmount the security challenges facing the people.

This is contained in a  statement in Ibadan by Chairman, Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi on the commencement of this year’s Ramadan fasting.

He noted that Ramadan is a month full of blessings, hence Muslims should use the opportunity to pray fervently to seek Allah’s forgiveness to end the security challenges which have enveloped the country characterized by insurgency, kidnapping, armed bandits, and of recent, terrorist acts of train attacks.

Alhaji Fasasi noted that since the compulsory twenty-nine or thirty days of fasting is hinged on God’s consciousness, Muslims should endeavour to ensure that their actions and inactions follow the dictates of Allah.

He reminded the believers that activities like feeding the poor, recitation of Quran, attending Islamic lectures, being among the righteous ones, and avoidance of wrong acts are some of the catalysts that speed up the acceptance of one’s fasting by Allah.

Alhaji Fasasi urged the Islamic faithful, especially the wealthy ones to remember the less privileged and others that the current economic challenges have affected bearing it in mind that Ramadan is a month of helping the needy. 

He admonished Muslim philanthropists to take sponsorship of Islamic lectures as a top priority so that Muslims will be able to benefit from such through traditional channels of radio and Television as well as new media platforms.

Alhaji Fasasi enjoined Islamic clerics who will be handling different lectures and explanations of the holy Quran during the month to lay emphasis on issues of patriotism, peaceful co-existence, and love for one another.

He added that though there is no restriction by the government, the traditional activities during Ramadan like Tarawih, Tafsir, group iftar, and annual lecture should be observed moderately as  COVID-19 is still within.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

MMPN Hails Police over Approval of Hijab

By Web News 535

Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, has lauded the approval of hijab as part of dress codes for female police officers .

This is contained in a communique issued in Ibadan by the Chairman, MMPN,  Oyo State Chapter,  Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi at the end of the monthly meeting of the Association held at FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station. 

The Association  noted that the recognition of hijab by the police is a welcome development as this will bring about religious diversity in the work place for optimum output and professionalism. 

It noted that the development is in line with the international best practice being operated in countries like United Kingdom,  Canada, USA, Sweden, Turkey and  Australia and called on other security agencies and parastatals to join the train.

The Association decried the rising cases of rape against both minor and adult females and advocated capital punishments for perpetrators the dastardly acts.

It  called for more vigilance on the part of parents and guardians as well as the general public considering the fact that perpetrators are mostly family members and relatives.  

The Association emphasized that there is urgent need for the Federal Government to arrest the fuel shortage problem confronting the country before it begins to take negative toll on the nation’s economy.  

It explained that the fuel situation is already causing hikes in transportation fares thereby exposing the commuters to untold hardship and the general public to arbitrary increase in prices of goods and services.  

The Association observed that  there is need for monitoring and enforcement officials at the ports to be more thorough in scrutinizing quality of imported products with a view to preventing hazards that may arise from substandard product that found its way into circulation .

It lauded the efforts of National Drug Laws Enforcement Agency, NDLEA under it’s new leadership, General Buba Marwa following the series of outstanding successes against the activities of drug traffickers and abusers regardless of the social status of the offenders.  

MMPN urged government and stakeholders to engage more with the grassroots in the campaign against Female Genital Mutilation to stop the harmful practice even at the remotest corners of the society.  

The Association condemned the spate of armed robbery attacks on financial institutions and facilities and called for concerns on the part of security stakeholders as recent experiences in Oyo, Ondo and Edo states are mind boggling.  

It added that Nigerians should use the opportunity of timely release of 2023 General Elections’ Timetable by INEC to participate responsibly in the process.  

Ridwan Fasasi

Politics

MMPN Urges Federal Government To Reduce Cost Of Governance

By Web News 845

Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN has called on the Federal Government to reduce the cost of governance at all levels by 70 per cent to save money to embark on developmental projects.

This is contained in a communique by Chairman, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi at the end of the monthly meeting of the Association in Ibadan hosted by the Oyo State Ministry of Information.

MMPN note that a reduction in the cost of governance by 70 per cent will help to save more money as the Association believes that the cost of governance in the country is too high compared to the developed world.

The Association urges the federal government to shelve the idea of oil subsidy removal as such a move will lead to an increase in prices of fuel and other essential commodities thereby inflicting more suffering on the majority of the Nigerian masses.

MMPN similarly urges the federal government to take proactive measures in combating the new COVID-19 variant, dubbed Omicron, especially as the festive period is fast approaching with people travelling en-mass across the country.

The Muslim pen professionals equally appealed to the federal government to take proactive steps towards averting looming industrial action planned to take place in January 2022 by judicial workers “as the strike will affect quick dispensation of justice in the country”.

The association while reviewing recent happenings in the journalism profession in the state, advised media professionals to uphold the responsibility of being the watchdog of the society by avoiding practices that could lead to derailment from its journalistic ethos.

“The charade that led to the NUJ National election, the brouhaha that characterized NUJ, Oyo State Correspondent Chapel election and the recent State NAWOJ election where 2 factions are claiming leadership of the union is a show of shame which have soiled the watchdog responsibility of the media as well as its role model functions”.

MMPN equally called on the federal government to look into the issue of molestation of female Muslim students in public higher institutions of learning so as to allow Muslims to practice their religious beliefs.

“MMPN warns civil and public servants against being overzealous in implementing government circulars or taking steps that could lead to denial or infringement on Muslims fundamental human rights”.

The Association commends Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Abdurasheed Abdulazeez for the prompt response and amicable resolutions to issues pertaining to Islam and at the same time lauds Engineer. Seyi Makinde for fulfilling his promise of fairness in the appointment of commissioners.

The Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria also congratulates the newly installed Chief Imam of Ogbomoso land and admonishes other zones in the state to emulate a method of choosing people with intimidating credentials into the exalted position.      

Ridwan Fasasi   

Alhaja Alimot Akinola, Wife of Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Akinola
Lifestyle

MMPN Condoles Aare Musulumi over Death of Wife

By Web News 940

Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, has condoled the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Daud Akinola, over the passage of one of his wives, Alhaja Alimat Akinola.

This is contained in a condolence message in Ibadan by Chairman, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi. 

Alhaji Fasasi described the death of Alhaja Akinola as shocking but enjoined Aare Musulumi to count the development as the wish of Allah as every soul shall taste death.

He enjoined Alhaji Akinola to also take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled and impactful life as her generosity had great effects on a lot of households.

Alhaji Fasasi prayed to Allah to give the husband, children relatives and Muslim Ummah the fortitude to bear the demise of Alhaja Akinola, forgive her shortcomings and reward her with Al-Jannah Firdaos. 

Alhaja Alimat Akinola died during an illness at the age of 47.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Maolud: MMPN Preaches Peaceful Coexistence

By Web News 1204

As Muslims join in marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad, they have been urged to continue to live with others peacefully.

This is contained in a statement in Ibadan by Chairman, Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter,  Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi on the occasion of this year’s Maolud Nabiyy.

Alhaji Fasasi emphasized that peaceful co – existence is part of Islamic ethics as Prophet Muhammad as a leader in Medinah did not only live peacefully with others but was just to them irrespective of different tribal and religious affiliations . 

He said one of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad is good neighbourhood as neighbours remained the closest ally and being kind to them would bring about harmonious living.

The MMPN Chairman noted that the message brought to mankind by the Holy Prophet  is Islam which means peace,  stressing that no adherent of the religion should therefore be found in any act or action that would threaten peace and stability of anyone.

He emphasized that as political activities  gradually pick up ahead of 2023 general election, politicians should play the game by the rules and eschew conducts that are likely to cause a breach of peace.

Alhaji Fasasi called on religious leaders, traditional rulers as well as prominent personalities to preach against electoral violence so that Oyo State will not return to the era of brigandage,  thuggery, hooliganism and do or die politics.

He explained that if Nigerian leaders emulate the virtues of Prophet Muhammad which include honesty, selfless service,  love, kindness, equality, fairness and above all, God’s consciousness, the country would have been among the comity of developed nations.

The MMPN  Chairman enjoined leaders in the country  to invest in righteous deeds at all times and fear a day when they would be called to question on their stewardship by the Almighty Allah as there would no longer be any respite regarding their judgements.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Eid-Kabir: MMPN Calls On Government To Address Worsening Security

By Web News 958

Nigerian leaders have been charged to do more to address the worsening security situation in the country. 

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

Alhaji Fasasi said it is hightime that the Federal government in particular adopted urgent and pragmatic security strategies stressing that 

It is sad that hardly would a week pass that there would not be incidents of banditary, kidnapping, farmers-herders’ clashes among others whereas such happenings were alien in Nigerian societies. 

He emphasized that the porous security situation in the country had created loopholes making regions, states, community and individuals resulting in self-help which might be counter-productive. 

The MMPN Chairman noted that the security lapses were responsible for the increasing agitations for the break-up of Nigeria emphasising that the development has become a major threat to the unity of the country.

He however enjoined secessionists to have a rethink and team up with the government and the security agencies to bring about lasting peace as tearing the country apart might end up in jeopardy.

Alhaji Fasasi urged the Muslim faithful to celebrate the Eid with moderation and comply with COVID-19 protocols to safe the country especially from the  deadliest Delta variant, which has just been detected. 

He admonished Muslims to imbibe the spirit of obedience, love, kindness and equality that Eid Kabir celebration stands for in their day to day activities. 

Alhaji Fasasi equally noted that faithfulness and the fear of Allah by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ismail played prominent roles in the history of the celebration and urged Muslims to emulate the virtues.

He enjoined Muslims to ensure peaceful co – existence with adherents of other religions as every man has a link to Prophet Adam and they should see others as their brothers and sisters. 

The MMPN Chairman emphasized that peaceful co – existence is part of Islamic ethics as Prophet Muhammad as a leader in Medinah did not only live peacefully with others but was just to them irrespective of different tribal and religious affiliations. 

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Agidigbo FM Chairman Charges MMPN To React More On National Issues

By Web News 1007

Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria , MMPN  has been charged to be more alive to its responsibilities through regular reactions to  current issues to bring desired changes.

 The Chairman , Agidigbo FM,  Ibadan, Alhaji Oriyomi Hamsat made the call while playing host to executives and members of MMPN,  Oyo State Chapter that paid a courtesy visit to the station.

He said the more the Association reacts to state and national issues,  the more it will be a force to reckon with stressing that  the present  situation in the country  calls for continuous reactions to ensure the authorities take proactive steps for the country to be at peace .

The Agidigbo  FM Chairman harped on the need for MMPN  to intensify efforts on membership drive and also preach religious tolerance to aid peaceful co-existence in various communities .

Alhaji Oriyomi while appreciating members of the  organisation for the visit assured them of active collaboration .  ” It  is a thing of joy to receive Muslim Media Practitioners today,  in which I belong .

Let me say that we have not been doing much when it comes to responding to vital issues in the country”” As Muslim Media Practitioners , you have to contribute actively to the development of the country, speak out on vital  issues ,   particularly , when there is no election , so that during electioneering  , people won’t see you as agents of political gladiators “” I am very much with you and appreciate the organization for being there during the trying period .

Let me say categorical that Agidigbo FM will have a branch and we are ready to  be part of activities of MMPN at the state level” He added.

Earlier, Chairman,  MMPN Oyo State Chapter,  Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi lauded the station for its creativity and people centred programmes which has made it to be having more listeners every day.

“We have been following Agidigbo FM  since it was an online radio, even during a test transmission as it metamorphosed to terrestrial broadcasting station and now that the full operation has commenced and truly, it’s people’s voice in line with the slogan of the station.

No doubt,  Agidigbo FM is a radio of the people , by the people and for the people. You are parading the best hands in the profession and the creativity behind your programmes is awesome. It’s hope that the trend will continue and our prayer is that the station will continue to wax stronger”.

 Alhaji Fasasi enjoined the station to place more emphasis on professionalism and should not allow commercialization to dictate its tune.”Agidigbo FM should be a model of private station that will not sacrifice public service in the altar of commercialization.

Let the station strike a balance between professionalism and commercialization.

The two should be taken as important for survival of the station”. The MMPN  Chairman noted that MMPN was ready to collaborate with the station in different areas for the benefit of the people. 

“As you are aware, we have competent and experienced hands in the areas of journalism, programming and other non- contents fields of the profession and we are ready to offer the services for the advancement of the station. 

We will also appreciate adequate publicity for our activities. The door of MMPN is at the same  time open for any collaboration for the benefits of the two parties as well as humanity”. 

Alhaji Fasasi urged the Chairman  of Agidigbo FM to participate actively in the programmes of MMPN and encourage the Muslim staff to be members.

“Seeing someone like you regularly in our midst will inspire more members to be coming, as a result, your seat in MMPN, the Association which was co-established by your elder brother, Alhaji Kunle Hamsat of the blessed memory is still vacant”.

“It will be a great joy too if you encourage Muslims among the staff here to be attending our programmes.  In fact,  it will be a pleasure if Agidigbo FM becomes the first private station in Oyo  State to be registered as a branch”. 

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Forget about secession – Oyo TMC Coordinator Charges Agitators

By Web News 807

The state coordinator, The Muslim Congress, TMC, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Daud Oladosu has called on agitators of secession to call off the agenda and embrace a united Nigeria.

He made the call at the 2020 Annual State Lecture of the organization entitled “Religion and Science for a COVID-19 Free World: Conflict and Confluence” held at Studio One, Broadcasting House, Dugbe, Ibadan.

Alhaji Oladosu who observed that the removal of oil subsidy would end corruption, called on government to ensure that the fund is used to renovate refineries and develop infrastructure.

Alhaji Oladosu maintained that there is need for Nigerians to be patriotic as God is pleased to allow the nation exist for the past 60 years.

In a remark, the Zonal Director, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station, Alhaji Mohammed Bello represented by a Manager News and Current Affairs, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi, recognised the constant patronage and sustained partnership between the FRCN and TMC, urged the congress to continue to enlighten Muslims and other Nigerians on contemporary issues.

Funmilayo Obagbayegun

Politics

MMPN Urges Muslims to Pray for the World

By Web News 758

As Nigerian Muslims join their counterparts all over the world to begin Ramadan fasting, they have been urged to dedicate the period for prayers to end 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 said since Ramadan is a month full of blessings, Muslims should use the opportunity to pray fervently to seek Allah’s forgiveness to halt the ravaging COVID-19, which has brought the world to its knees.

He urged the Islamic faithful especially the wealthy ones to remember the less privileged and others that the current situation has affected their sources of income bearing it in mind that Ramadan is a month of helping the needy. 

The MMPN Chairman noted that though the traditional activities during Ramadan like Tarawih, Tafsir and annual lecture have been affected to prevent the spread of the virus, the believers should actively perform others that could be done on individual basis such as five daily prayers, recitation of Quran, listening to Islamic sermons and Tahajjud, night prayers. 

He explained that since the month is loaded with spiritual activities, the believers should regularly wash their hands with soap under running water while they should as well observe other precautionary measures to prevent contracting the deadly virus.

Alhaji Fasasi enjoined Muslim philanthropists to take sponsorship of Islamic lectures as a top priority especially this period so that Muslims at home will be able to benefit from such through traditional channels of radio and Television as well as new media platforms.

He admonished Islamic clerics who will be handling such lectures and explanation of the holy Quran to lay emphasis on prevention of the spread of coronavirus, as well as issues of patriotism, peaceful co-existence, and love for one another.

Alhaji Fasasi prayed to Allah to give Nigerian leaders the wisdom and power that will make the country survive the post COVID-19 challenges.

He emphasized that since the compulsory twenty-nine or thirty days fasting is hinged on God’s consciousness, Muslims should endeavour to ensure that their actions and inactions follow the dictates of Allah.

Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi