Gafar Alabi,
The Chief Imam of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Prof. Abdulhakeem Akanni, has called on Nigerians to respect constituted authorities, describing it as essential to translating government policies into tangible results.
Akanni made the call while delivering a lecture at the 19th Annual State Lecture organised by the Muslim Congress (TMC), Ogun State Chapter, in Abeokuta,
themed “Nation Building Through Ethical Leadership: Taking Ownership of Our Roles,” featured discussions on national cohesion, sustainable security, civic responsibility and ethical governance.
Speaking on “Emplacing National Cohesion, Sustainable Security and Civic Trust: From Policy to Performance,” Akanni urged parents and guardians to teach their children respect for constituted authorities, justice and peaceful coexistence, calling for greater awareness of the dangers of banditry and kidnapping, while urging Nigerians to respect ethnic and religious diversity and see themselves as one people regardless of language, ethnicity or religious affiliation.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the don urged citizens to perform their civic responsibilities and vote wisely for candidates capable of genuinely representing their interests.
Also speaking on “Ethical Governance, Accountability and Public Trust,” the Chief Executive Officer of AS and Associate, Nigeria, Imam Abdullah Shaib, said citizens must understand their rights and the provisions of the Constitution, noting that the primary responsibility of government at the local, state and federal levels was to ensure the welfare and security of the people.
Shaib also stressed the importance of justice in leadership, particularly in resolving disputes involving people from different ethnic groups.
In his remarks, the Olowu of Owu, HRM Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola, said Nigerians had important roles to play in the development of the country, urging citizens to uphold trust and responsibility, citing the Qur’an, Chapter 4, Suratul Nisa, on the importance of safeguarding trusts.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate for Ogun East, Alhaji Omotayo Omo’Owo, represented by Alhaji Bisiriyu and the Ogun State House of Assembly member representing Abeokuta South Constituency 1, Hon. Lukman Atobatele, commended the organisers for choosing the theme at a critical period in the country’s development.
They stressed that sustainable development required leaders who uphold justice, integrity, accountability and selflessness.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Immediate Past Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Prof. Abdus-Samiu Musa-Olomu, Imam Bashir Abdulateef of Crescent University, Abeokuta, said everyone had a role to play in nation-building, urging politicians, civil servants, professionals, students and other citizens to contribute positively to national development and uphold the fear of Allah in their various responsibilities.
Earlier, in his welcome address delivered on behalf of the Amir of the Muslim Congress, Alhaji AbdulWasi’i Bangbala, the Waali of Ogun State, Dr Jamiu Folarin, Bangbala said nation-building required integrity, accountability, justice and selflessness, describing leadership as a trust for which leaders are ultimately accountable to the people and Almighty Allah.
He urged Nigerians to use the 2027 elections to demand leaders who view governance as a service rather than an avenue for personal enrichment, called on governments at all levels to address the economic hardship confronting Nigerians, noting that rising fuel prices had increased the cost of transportation, food and other essential services.
While acknowledging the need for economic reforms, he urged the government to implement direct, substantial and verifiable palliatives to cushion the impact on citizens.
The event featured the presentation of awards to individuals for their contributions to Islam and their communities, as well as prizes to students who participated in Qur’anic competitions organised by the Muslim Congress.
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