The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has called for prayers for peace in Gaza and other parts of the world experiencing conflict or some form of crisis. The Sultan made the call while inaugurating the Organisation of Tadamul Muslimeen Mosque on Iwo Road, Ibadan, on Thursday.
In his remarks, the Sultan noted that leaders and followers alike had a duty to be their brother’s keeper and to advocate for peace and stability in society. He particularly commended Governor Seyi Makinde for using his personal funds to build the mosque, emphasizing that leaders are also expected to promote the spiritual development of their citizenry.
Apart from being a place of worship to God, he said mosques should be a place to educate adherents on the importance of peaceful coexistence. Abubakar charged the mosque management committee to ensure the mosque remains in good shape for years, stressing that such religious houses are a source of happiness and a critical part of their spiritual life.
Facilities in the mosque include a prayer hub, ablution hub, and a library/research centre.
Delivering a lecture on the occasion, the Chief Imam of Oluyole Extension, Ibadan, Alhaji Mudathir Bada, said it was a remarkable thing for one to make a promise and fulfill it. Bada lauded the governor for keeping his promise to build a befitting mosque after demolishing the Adogba mosque to create space for the ongoing construction of the Iwo Road bus terminal.
Giving his remarks, Governor Seyi Makinde assured that all religions, without bias, in the state will continue to receive their due. He praised Muslims in the state for voting him for a second term, noting that he received over 70 percent of the votes of Muslims in the last election.
The Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Edo, and Delta, Alhaji Daud Akinola, in his remarks, praised the governor for doing well for Islam in the state, as if he were a Muslim.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion included the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero; Chief Imam of Ibadan land, Alhaji Abdulganiy Abubakar; Oyo deputy governor, Mr. Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the state Assembly, Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin; former deputy governors, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja and Mr. Hamid Gbadamosi; Chairman, Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr. Saka Balogun; federal and state lawmakers; Islamic clerics, including Alhaji Taofeek Akewugbagold and Alhaji Muideen Bello.
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