By Abdulfatah Babatunde
As The Muslim Congress (TMC) prepares to commission its International Muslim Cemetery (IMC), its leadership has called on the government, wealthy individuals and corporate organisations to support the project.
Alhaji Abdul-Wasi’i Bangbala, Amir (President) of the TMC, made the call while presenting 26th series of the “State of the Nation Address”, recently in Lagos.
TheNewsZenith reports that the Address is put together by the TMC Committee on Social Mobility, the Economy & Politics. It is a Think Tank arm of the Faith-based Muslim organisation.
Bangbala, who doubles as Committee’s Chair said the cemetery “stands as a revered final resting place for the departed.
He added that it offers solace and closure to the families and loved ones of the deads.
“The lack of such facilities has posed great challenges for the Muslim community, particularly in the Southwest.
“In light of this, we urge the authorities, especially in Ogun State, to address the need for improvement in the access road leading to the cemetery via the Mosimi-Moro-Iraye Road, off Ikorodu-Sagamu road.
“This cemetery holds immense importance for the Muslim community,” Bangbala said.
TheNewsZenith reports that the cemetery is located at Iberekodo Village in Sagamu Local Government Area of the State.
According to the TMC leader, the cemetery will be officially opened on June 30.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar and Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Alhaja Noimot Salako-Oyedele among others would grace the location.
The event would feature keynote speeches, unveiling the cemetery and a guided tour of the facilities.
“TMC, a registered faith-based non-governmental Islamic organisation, remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the community.
“It is also will provide essential support at the grassroots level,” Amir Bangbala said.
Also in the address, the committee touched on recent security issue in Ibadan. That is, where some Yoruba Nation agitators made an incursion into Oyo State to forcefully take over the stat secretariat.
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The committee described the incident as a wake-up call for the Federal Governmne t to bolster internal security.
“The recent incursion by a group of secessionists operating as Ominira Yoruba 22, who attempted to seize the Oyo State Government Secretariat on 13 April, represents a dangerous and treasonous act. It raised concerns in the country.
“Although security forces thwarted its plans, the group’s ultimate goal was to violently take over the state’s House of Assembly.
“This was following their declaration of the Yoruba Nation as an independent entity separate from Nigeria.
“Considering the past costs of similar reckless endeavours, it was assumed that such risky ventures would be a thing of the past.
“Unfortunately, this has not been so. The political elite’s continual trifling with the task of nation-building has contributed to the rise of ethnic militias advocating for self-determination.
“It is crucial that the government bring all those involved to justice to deter similar actions in the future.
“The security breach in Ibadan has also revealed the inadequacies within the Nigerian Police Force and intelligence agencies.
“This highlighted the need for enhanced security measures to address the challenges.
“We, therefore, call upon the authorities to acknowledge the gravity of the situation. They should take decisive action to tackle the underlying causes of these security threats.
On the Lagos-Calabar Coasteal Highway project, the committee described it as a significant infrastructure initiative of President Bola Tinubu.
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“This project aims to enhance transportation connectivity, boost economic growth and create jobs. It would also improve overall quality of life for residents along the coastal area.
“The construction of the highway would provide a vital link between key cities and communities, facilitating smoother travel and transportation of goods and services.
“This improved connectivity can spur economic development by attracting investments, boosting tourism, and stimulating trade activities along the coastal corridor.”
While the benefits of the proposed coastal highway project are promising, TMC committee said the government should ensure transparency in the financing and execution of the project.
“Addressing the concerns raised by critics of the project is essential to build trust and garner support from the public.
“Open communication and willingness to engage with stakeholders are key to fostering transparency and accountability in the project implementation.
“The government must be able to answer their questions and clarifying any uncertainties,” the Chair said.
To allay the fears of those whose properties are affected by the project, the committee urged the Federal Government to prioritise community engagement and consultation.
“By involving the affected residents in the decision-making process, listening to their concerns and addressing their needs, the government can mitigate potential conflicts.
“This will also ensure that the project proceeds in a considerate manner for the local communities’ interests.”
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