Imam Ahmad, Prof Oloyede, Deputy Governor advocate societal harmony at Yewa Muslim Community lecture
By BASHIR ADEFAKA
National Missioner of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Worldwide, Imam Abdur-Rahman Olanrewaju Ahmad, has advocated for the establishment of a balanced and just society that fosters harmony and reverence for Allah.
The broadcasting journalist, who has always insisted on clerics presenting Islam to the people in its pristine nature especially as regards funeral handling in the faith, made these remarks at a public lecture organized by the Yewa Muslim Community in Ogun State.
Addressing the theme: “The Muslim Community: Pivot of Societal Harmony and Well-being,” Sheikh Ahmad emphasized the importance of Muslims striving to build an Ummah characterized by moderation and balanced thoughts and actions.
Citing Qur’anic teachings and the example from the life of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), he underscored Islam’s essence as a religion of ease and unity.
“In our efforts to build a balanced Ummah,” Sheikh Ahmad remarked, “we must uphold the principles of Tawhid and Ikhlas, and recognize the necessity of authoritative leadership within our community.,” he said.
He expressed concern over the current crisis of leadership within Islamic circles but remained optimistic that adherence to Qur’anic principles could restore unity and direction.
Sheikh Ahmad, who spoke in the presence of dignitaries such as the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; and the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Registrar of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, highlighted Qur’anic directives for Muslims to promote unity and tolerance.
He urged the community to embrace diversity while maintaining a collective focus on faith and shared values.
In his keynote address, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede commended the Yewa Muslim Community for organizing such an enlightening program, praising its efforts in promoting unity and Islamic values.
He stressed the importance of educating the youth on both Western and Islamic principles to safeguard their identity and values amidst modern challenges.
The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, represented by the state Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, echoed similar sentiments, expressing concern over the erosion of Islamic values and advocating concerted efforts to instill moral integrity and mutual respect in society.
Dr. Ibrahim Opeewe, representing the Medical Director of Lafiyah Medical Centre, Dr. Rabiu Kusimo, emphasized the significance of physical and mental health awareness within the community.
He urged adherence to Islamic hygiene principles and proactive healthcare measures.
Reflecting on the event, Alhaji Nurudeen Bola Adesina, Secretary-General of the Yewa Muslim Community, touched on the community’s historical journey and its commitment to unity and progress.
His speech, read by Chairman of the Yewa Muslim Community Administration, Nurudeen Olaleye, outlined plans to enhance community infrastructure and educational initiatives, while underscoring the role of faith-based principles in guiding communal development.
The public lecture concluded with a resolution among attendees to uphold the teachings of Islam, foster unity and promote societal harmony in Yewa Land and beyond.
Dignitaries at the event included former Deputy Governor and Iya Adinni of Ogun State, Her Excellency Alhaja Salmat Makanjuola Badru; former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Baba Adinni of Yoruba Land/Edo and Delta, His Excellency Alhaji Sarafa Tunji Isola; Chief Imam of Yewa Land and President, Ogun State League of Imam and Alfas, Sheikh Sikirullah Babalola; members of the House of Representatives including Hon. Abiodun Akinmade and former Ogun State Governorship Candidate Gboyega Isika, among others.
