The Muslim Congress (TMC), Oyo State chapter, has urged Islamic scholars across the country to continually counsel political officeholders on policies and actions that will advance the welfare of citizens and promote national development.
The call was made during the organisation’s 2025 annual lecture held on Sunday, 5 October, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
In his address, the Aare Balogun Baamofin of Ibadaland, Honourable (Rtd.) Justice Moshood Abass, appealed to the Federal Government and religious leaders to work hand in hand in building a nation that guarantees peace, unity, and prosperity for all.
Speaking on the theme, “The Nigerian State and Lessons from Contemporary History,” Justice Abass stressed the need for sustained national focus on pressing issues such as insecurity and economic instability. He urged Nigerians to ask probing questions and remain steadfast in seeking solutions to the country’s challenges.
“The Muslim Congress has again provided a platform for deep reflection on the destiny of our nation. The theme before us is timely and urgent. Nigeria stands today at a turning point. We are blessed with brilliant minds, fertile land, abundant resources, and youthful energy. Yet, we remain confronted by insecurity, disunity, corruption, and economic hardship,” he said.
“Nigeria can rise, but only if we face the truth. Shallow thinking will not rescue this nation; only peace, sincerity, and courageous action will. I challenge our distinguished lecturers and speakers not merely to diagnose the problems of our state but to offer us the cure,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Grand Imam of Ogbomosoland, Sheikh Dr Teliat Yunus Ayilara II, called on Muslims globally to deepen their faith and urged the Federal Government to consider implementing Sharia law, which he said could foster peace and national development.
Addressing the recent banditry incidents in Kwara State, Sheikh Ayilara demanded that those responsible for the heinous crimes be brought to justice without delay.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Waali (State Coordinator) of The Muslim Congress, Oyo State, Alhaji Engr. Daud Oladosu, said this year’s lecture theme went beyond a mere title, describing it as a clarion call for Nigerians to reflect deeply on the nation’s trajectory and collective responsibility towards a more prosperous future.
“Today, we gather under the weight of a theme that is as urgent as it is profound. It calls for sober reflection and introspection. We must learn from the triumphs and trials of our history to navigate our present challenges wisely and build a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
In a brief interaction with journalists, the Executive Chairman of Oluyole Local Government and Baba Isale Adinni of Oluyole, Engr. Hakeem Olatunji, urged all tiers of government to uphold integrity and always act in the best interest of the people.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to fifteen outstanding participants; nine from the annual Qur’an competition and six from the Spelling Bee contest as well as goodwill messages from guests.
Dignitaries present at the occasion included the Minister of Power, Honourable Adebayo Adelabu; Aare Balogun Baamofin of Ibadaland, Rtd. Justice Moshood Abass; Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Sheikh Dr Teliat Yunus Ayilara II; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Hajj Mabrur Ventures Ltd, Alhaji Abdul Ahmid Solate; and the Iyalaje Adinni of Oyo State, Alhaja (Amd.) Rahmat Romoke Ayinde, among others.
Umar Ismaeel